Apple's App Store Now Allows Gifting

If you really want to give that special someone in your life a copy of "Street Fighter 4" or one of Square Enix's "Final Fantasy" re-releases on iPhone, you can now gift any one of them directly, instead of just relying on a gift card. Some changes to Apple's App Store this week opened up a gifting option on all of the apps and games there, meaning you don't have to worry about giving your friend a $10 gift card for a specific game, only to watch them accidentally blow it on similarly labeled player's guide or "photo album."

The new system allows givers to send redeemable app presents over email with a 500-word personalized message or on paper with everything necessary printed out directly from iTunes. The "Gift This App" Function appears when you go to buy something in iTunes. Apple doesn't currently allow such generous behavior from on board the iPhone or with free apps, however, so forget any plans you may have to give like a cheapskate through the App Store. The giving screen even allows you to give the same app to multiple recipients, which is also a neat feature.

I'm a bit surprised this wasn't already possible, but it sounds like a fine option for birthdays and holidays down the road.

What games do you see yourself giving to your favorite people now that Apple has opened up app giving? Is there any other functionality you would like to see them add to the App Store? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Tags app store, apple