Costa's iPhone app gains Passbook support, but doesn't use its best features
Costa might be the coffee shop king in the UK, but updates to its mobile apps have been slow going. After finally launching a digital version of its points card, the company today added some fresh iOS functionality in the form of Passbook support. Dial back your expectations though, because this is hardly a revolution in mobile payments or loyalty schemes. For one, there are no push notifications, so when you stroll into your nearest store you'll need to remember to pull out your smartphone, which negates Passbook's built-in location features. For another, there's still no option to actually pay for your order. Starbucks, on the other hand, can handle both requirements. That means you're still only able to collect points using Costa's app, which can then be exchanged for free drinks and grub. Still, this is Costa's first stab at Passbook, so it's possible these features will be patched in with a future update -- if the company actually wants you to buy a gingerbread latte with your phone.
