Amazon's gift card restriction patent: puts some thought in your otherwise thoughtless present

We all have that one friend or family member that's nigh impossible to shop for, whether it's because they have everything or like nothing. Gift cards are the quick and dirty solution to this gifting conundrum, but what if you don't trust that special someone to make a purchase you'd be proud to call your present? Never fear, Amazon is here... with a new patent that lets you, the gift-giver, control which of the retailer's wares can be bought with its gift cards. Of course, those who aren't such control freaks can simply have the card make purchase recommendations instead. Plus, this gift card of tomorrow can also let you know what was bought with the card to give you some insight for future gifting occasions. Maybe then you'll be able to give your mother-in-law something she'll like, instead of just some repurposed retail cash.

Amazon's gift card restriction patent: puts some thought in your otherwise thoughtless present originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:07:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Geek Wire  |  USPTO  | Email this | Comments

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/amazons-gift-card-restriction-patent-puts-some-thought-in-your/

Directv Group Elpida Memory Emc Fidelity National Information Svcs Fiserv Google