The Bitcoin Association of Hong Kong has announced that, starting today, you can pay for your skinny Venti caffé latte mochachino and other fancy Starbucks beverages using Bitcoin.
Here’s how it works.
With the Fold app, you will be presented with a Starbucks barcode to which you can load Bitcoin to add to your balance. You can purchase bundles of USD5 or USD10 at a time.
Though the app will warn you that it is untested outside the United States, the good folks at Bitcoin HK have confirmed that it works here too.
I guess we’ve just got to take their word for that.
The downside is that the app is currently only available on Apple devices. Those using Android handsets like actual cave people will have to check out the direct link: https://coffee.foldapp.com/
Once you have a balance, you’re ready to spend on all the frappucinos and croissants you can stomach before your heart gives out.
Bitcoin HK recommends that you tell the barista that you’d like to pay using a gift card (because the word “Bitcoin” will probably just warp the hell out of them), before you present the barcode to the scanner.
And voilà! It should work.
Go test it out. Think of it as performing a public service.
Any change will be returned to your Bitcoin balance, but if you’re feeling extra community spirited you can opt to donate it to an organisation that accepts Bitcoin.
The association lists the HK Helpers Campaign and the Internet Archive, among others.
Do good. Get coffee. Pay weird.
Photo: Phil Parker via Flickr
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