Starbucks to distribute iTunes "Song of the day" cards

When the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store at Starbucks launches in New York and Seattle on Tuesday, October 2nd, the coffee giant will be armed with promotions.

First of all, they'll distribute 1.5 million "Song of the day" cards across 10,000 locations. Each card will provide a free single from artists like Bob Dylan (Of course – Steve loves Dylan. In fact, Dylan's "Joker Man" will be the first giveaway), Paul McCartney and Dave Matthews via iTunes (US). They'll be valid until the end of 2007.

Also, select Starbucks locations will sell "iTunes Digital Release Cards," which allow customers to download music and bonus materials (like music videos and digital booklets) from artists like KT Tunstall and Eddie Vedder. These must be activated at Starbucks before use in the iTunes Store (US).

Finally, they'll also be selling the "Starbucks Card Plus Two"; a re-chargable coffee card that includes two free downloads from iTunes (US).

If you're unfamiliar with the partnership, the iPhone and iPod Touch will be equipped with software that can "detect" a nearby Starbucks (in participating locations), and allow customers to purchase the song playing over the store's stereo system directly from those devices. Starbucks will provide free wireless access to the Wi-Fi iTunes Music Store (and only the Wi-Fi iTunes Music Store – meaning you've still got to pay for wireless internet, email, etc.).

New York and Seattle will pilot the program, with more major metropolitan locations being added throughout 2008 and 2009.

In short, they're really going to push this thing. Since the launch date of the joint venture is Oct. 2nd, we probably won't see the Wi-Fi iTunes Music Store on our iPhones or iPod Touches before then. Bummer.