Starbucks FINALLY launches a truly free Wi-Fi program on July 1, 2010!

In 2008, Starbucks launched a “free” Wi-Fi program through AT&T, which actually required a value card (one-time $5 purchase) for two hours of access, plus $3.99 for each additional session of two consecutive hours. If you already had an AT&T device and/or account, consecutive hours were free, but activating your Starbucks value card (which of course opens the doors for advertising) has always been a requirement. Although I consider myself a fairly savvy mobile user, this has always been very frustrating to me. So, when I want Wi-Fi access and a cup of coffee, I have always gone elsewhere, often to a local (smaller budget) business that offers Wi-Fi service for FREE. No gimmicks. I like that!

Free Wi-Fi is also readily available at many other establishments like McDonald’s, which has added a wireless signal to 11,000 locations. This week Starbucks FINALLY announced a truly free service, the kind where you’ll be able to walk in and access Wi-Fi for as long as you want with the click of a button, which is scheduled to launch in early July. Here’s hoping this announcement lives up to its hype and Starbucks’ new offer comes with less restrictions and complications this summer.

Also, iPhone and iPad users will have exclusive access the Starbucks Digital Network this fall. According to the Associated Press, the program will give Starbucks Web surfers free access to paid sites like the Wall Street Journal, along with exclusive content and free downloads from other sites such as iTunes, The New York Times and Yahoo!.