Facebook lets friends send gift cards

US: Facebook on Thursday began letting social network members in the United States send friends gift cards for purchases at participating shops or restaurants.

The move came as the world's leading social network seeks ways to expand how it makes money from its 1.06 billion monthly users, the majority of whom access the social network from smartphones or tablet computers.

Facebook was gradually adding the ability of US members to easily send cards loaded with cash credit at Jamba Juice, Target, Sephora or restaurant chain Olive Garden, according to a blog post. "Your friend will be notified instantly about your gift, and will receive a Facebook Card in the mail a few days later," Facebook said.

"As soon as it arrives, your friend can use the card at the retailer you've chosen for the amount you've gifted." Facebook made gift cards reusable, indicating that the California-based company wants them to have homes in people's wallets.

AFP