What the Tech: Last-second gift ideas – laparenthese-gourmande

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – We’ve all been there: a birthday surprises you, a Christmas party invitation arrives unexpectedly, or maybe you just forgot that person on your list.

Don’t panic! In the age of smartphones and instant gratification, there are plenty of last-second techie gifts that will save the day.

The classic Amazon dashboard: Let’s be real, Amazon has become the gold standard for last-minute shopping. With same-day delivery on many items, you can have a gift delivered before the recipient even realizes they’re receiving one. Just be aware of these delivery times and maybe have a backup plan (like blaming the delivery driver).
Gourmet delights: Who doesn’t like surprises? Order a delicious dessert, fancy coffee, or gourmet meal through delivery apps like DoorDash or Grubhub. It’s both a gift and an experience! Bonus points if you have Amazon Prime, which often comes with free delivery on Grubhub — talk about a win-win.
Digital gifts: For the bookworm, movie buff, or app enthusiast in your life, digital gifts are the way to go. Send them your e-book, your favorite movie, or even a paid app through platforms like Apple Books, the App Store, or Google Play. It’s thoughtful, personal and they can enjoy it instantly.

Subscription Services: Do you know someone who has always wanted to learn a new skill or improve their productivity? Offer them a subscription to a service like LinkedIn Learning, Evernote, MasterClass or Canva. It’s a gift that keeps on giving (and I hope they learn something useful).
Sirius XM’s Sneaky Trick: This one requires a bit of stealth, but it will definitely impress. If you know the make and model of someone’s car, you can usually find their VIN (vehicle identification number) on the front windshield. With this VIN, you can gift them a Sirius XM subscription through the Sirius XM website. It’s a fun surprise for any music lover or podcast enthusiast. Just be prepared to help them navigate potential complexities if they already have a Sirius XM subscription. Sirius XM currently offers a 3-month subscription for $1. You won’t get it at this price if they already have an account.

Remember: These last-second gift ideas are all about convenience and thoughtfulness. With a little creativity and a smartphone, you can find the perfect gift for everyone, even if you’re on the other end of the phone. So let go of the panic and embrace the power of technology – your friends and family will thank you.