“One thing is for sure: over 60 million of these “gifts” have been given.”

Virtual gifts are a waste of money, and I can’t imagine anyone who would readily admit that they have given them.  On Facebook, they have virtual gifts you can give to your friends for $1 or so.  Why would I waste my money and time doing that?  I will probably get an “Awwww….thank you” from them, and then they will never think about it again.  Also, they probably won’t even realize, or care, that I spent $1 to get them this gift that they will not think about again.  Some people might say, “but it’s the thought that counts.”  Maybe, but why give more money to these billionaires who are really the ones that are banking on these virtual gifts. 

In the article, it states that Facebook is now giving some gifts’ profits to charity.  It’s a nice way to trick us into investing in these ridiculous gifts where they probably get a percentage of the money.  My $1 is probably better off being sent directly to the charity.  Cut out the middle man.  I think it just confirms that some people think that given something of monetary value is more valuable than a message, hug, or kiss.  People, it isn’t.  A sweet message is worth much more than a virtual gift that are usually gritty images that looks like the designer (if you want to call him/her that) whipped up in less than a minute.

 Has anyone ever given virtual gifts?  If so, what value did you see in giving one?

Original article: http://blog.wired.com/business/2008/12/virtual-gifts.html

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