Finding the perfect present is an elusive pursuit. The search can quickly give rise to doubts and indecision. Will it fit? Is it age appropriate? Will it ever get used?
Everyone on your gift list has different tastes, likes, dislikes, hobbies, etc. But there is a category of never-fail gifts that will allow you to avoid the awkward I’m-going-to-pretend-to-really-be-into-this smile.
And the best part is, you can buy these gifts 24/7/365, there’s never a waiting line, and your recipients can access them immediately. You can even buy them on Christmas Day and they will be received immediately.
If you haven’t guessed yet, I’m talking about the wonderful world of apps. So whether you want to spend $0.99 or $200, here’s a list of our favorites for no-fail gifting.
Thr
ees! – A simple puzzle game that is as challenging as it is addictive. Fortunately, each game is only a few minutes long, leaving time to try again to beat your best score or those of your friends. Perfect for recipients of all ages.
Minecraft pocket edition – For game-loving kids (and adults), the immensely popular block building game comes to mobile, allowing players’ imaginative creations to come to life on-the-go.
Gift cards for ride sharing services are a one-size-fits all gift. Whether it be for Uber, Lyft, or another app-based car service, your gift will not go unused or unappreciated.
Stack the States – The app teaches kids state capitals, shapes, geographic locations, flags and more. ACT staff has been witness to noisy plane rides quelled by the educational game.
Does your loved one have receipts and paper records littering their life? Scanner Pro eliminates the clutter by turning a smartphone into a scanner. Help them archive all those documents on the computer or cloud in a format that makes the text searchable.
1Password is the app for anyone looking to store all their passwords in an encrypted, secure environment. Users can make a complicated password for each login and never need to remember it. The fingerprint ID from the iPhone lets you retrieve and paste it when you need it.
For the foodies in your life, digital versions of cookbooks and recipe guides are a great option. Forks over Knives, for example, comes from the makers of the critically acclaimed film, and features more than 160 whole food, plant-based recipes.
How would you like to help your loved ones never go grocery shopping again? For $99 a year, they can use the Instacart app to get all grocery orders of $35 or more delivered to your home for free – within two hours! The app’s interface is easy to use and ACT staff reports that produce is consistently fresh and top quality.
Help your loved ones kickstart their New Years fitness goals with an app like 7 Minute Workout Challenge. Requiring no internet connection (or gym membership), the app provides step-by-step exercise guidance that can be accessed anywhere.
Give the Workflow app to help push the power of what a smartphone can do. The automation app launched earlier this month is perfect for the ultimate multitaskers in your life.
Even with Christmas rapidly approaching, you still have plenty of time to make a stop at an app store and give a timely gift that can be taken anywhere.