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Starbucks has introduced a new way for customers to find their next favorite beverage using artificial intelligence. On April 15, 2026, the coffee giant rolled out a **beta Starbucks app** directly inside ChatGPT, shifting drink discovery from static menus to natural, conversational interactions.
Instead of scrolling through options, users can now describe how they feel, what they crave, or the vibe they want, and receive tailored recommendations based on Starbucks’ current menu. The feature aims to meet customers “in the moment of inspiration,” according to Paul Riedel, Starbucks SVP of Digital & Loyalty.
“Over the past year, one thing has become clear: customers aren’t always starting with a menu. They’re starting with a feeling,” Riedel said. “We wanted to meet customers right in that moment of inspiration and make it easier than ever to find a drink that fits.”
### How the Starbucks ChatGPT App Works
Accessing the experience is straightforward for ChatGPT users:
1. Open ChatGPT (on web or the app).
2. Navigate to the **Apps/GPTs directory**, search for “Starbucks,” and enable the beta app.
3. In any chat, mention **@Starbucks** followed by your prompt.
Users can share details such as:
– Their current **mood** (e.g., “I need something bright and energizing this morning”)
– Specific **cravings** (e.g., “something refreshing but not too sweet for the afternoon”)
– External factors like the **weather**, their **outfit**, daily goals, or even an **uploaded photo** that captures the desired vibe.
The AI then suggests personalized drink options, including customizations like milk alternatives, syrup levels, or toppings. Once a recommendation appeals, users can build a virtual cart within the chat. However, the actual purchase must be completed in the official **Starbucks app** or on starbucks.com to integrate with loyalty rewards and payment methods.
### Examples of Prompts to Try
– “@Starbucks I’m feeling tired but want something not too sweet and energizing”
– “@Starbucks recommend a drink for a rainy afternoon that pairs well with a croissant”
– Upload a sunny beach photo and ask: “@Starbucks what drink matches this vibe?”
This conversational approach is designed to spark creativity and help customers discover drinks they might not have considered otherwise. Starbucks notes that it can also make the in-store experience smoother, as customers arrive more inspired and ready to enjoy their order.
### Availability and Future Outlook
The beta is currently available to **U.S. customers**. Starbucks has described the launch as an opportunity to “listen, learn, and refine” the experience based on user feedback, with potential expansions in the future.
This customer-facing integration is separate from Starbucks’ earlier internal AI tool, **Green Dot Assist**, which helps baristas with recipes, equipment troubleshooting, and store operations.
The move reflects a broader trend of brands partnering with OpenAI’s ChatGPT ecosystem to create more intuitive and personalized shopping experiences. By blending AI conversation with real-world ordering, Starbucks hopes to make the daily coffee run feel fresher and more engaging.
If you have access to ChatGPT, the beta is easy to try — simply enable the app and start chatting with @Starbucks. It could just lead you to your new go-to drink. ☕
