Facebook's New Gift Store
MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- There are many ways to shop this holiday season. You can go online or you can go to the mall. But have you ever thought of going to Facebook for gifts?
The social network is rolling out a new service called 'Gifts'.
Facebook users click on the gift icon on a friend's timeline and a selection of items pops up.
People can make a purchase, notify their friend that the gift is on its way or keep it private so it's a surprise when the gift arrives. The service is free for users. Facebook earns a percentage from the businesses.
The gift selection is wide. Choose from iTunes gift cards, cupcakes, cozy pajamas and gourmet coffee just to mention a few of the items.
Not all Facebook users will find the gift store.
A Facebook spokesperson said they are continuing to roll out the feature to more people throughout the coming weeks.
But not everybody will be waiting for it.
"When consumers go to regular websites they're in the mood for shopping," said marketing professor Burt Rosenbloom.
"When they go on social networks like Facebook, it does other things, to keep friends informed, share photos, so this creates something of a barrier I would think compared to regular online shopping," said Professor Rosenbloom.
What happens to the information on what you buy?
Facebook said it is not currently using gift data to target you for certain advertising.
In this busy holiday shopping season, Facebook's gift option could be a real time-saver.
