How to gift apps from Microsoft Store step by step

Gifting an app from the Microsoft Store involves finding apps that allow gifting, buying the app as a gift, and sending it via email to your friend or family member. You start by checking if the app has a "Buy as gift" option, then complete the purchase with the recipient's email. The recipient redeems the app through their Microsoft account on a compatible device. While many paid apps and games support gifting, there are restrictions and alternatives if direct gifting isn’t available.

Which apps can you gift on Microsoft Store?

Not every app in the Microsoft Store can be gifted. Usually, only paid apps and games offer gifting options. Free apps, subscriptions, in-app purchases, and add-ons typically can’t be gifted. When you view an app's product page, check for a "Buy as gift" or "Gift" button near the purchase section. If you don’t see this option, the app probably doesn’t support gifting. Keep in mind Microsoft Store policies and app availability can vary by region, so some apps might be restricted due to licensing or regional limits. Always verify the gifting option on the app’s page before buying.

How do you purchase and send an app as a gift?

1. Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows device.
2. Search for the app you want to gift and open its product page.
3. Look for the "Buy as gift" or "Gift" button near the purchase option. If it’s missing, the app likely doesn’t support gifting.
4. Click "Buy as gift." You’ll be asked to enter the recipient’s email address.

Make sure you enter the recipient’s correct email address, as the gift link will be sent there and cannot easily be redirected.

5. Enter an email the recipient can access.
6. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the purchase using your preferred payment method.
7. After you finish, the recipient will get an email with a link or code to redeem the app.

What does the recipient need to know to redeem the gifted app?

The recipient must have a Microsoft account to redeem the gift. The email they receive includes a link or code that directs them to the Microsoft Store to claim the app. They just click the link or enter the code in the store to download and install it.

The Microsoft account they use to redeem the app should be the same one linked to their Windows device. The app also needs to be compatible with their device and available in their region. If the app isn’t available or compatible, they might not be able to redeem it. Once redeemed, the app is tied to their account and can be reinstalled on compatible devices anytime without buying it again.

What common problems or restrictions should you watch out for?

Here are some common issues when gifting apps through the Microsoft Store:

• No gifting option: Many apps don’t support gifting. This is especially true for free apps, subscriptions, and in-app content.
• Region restrictions: Gifting might be blocked if you and the recipient have different Microsoft Store regions or if the app isn’t offered in the recipient’s country.
• Email mistakes: If the email address you enter is wrong or the recipient doesn’t check it, the gift can’t be claimed.
• Account requirements: The recipient must have a Microsoft account and use Windows 10 or 11 for the app to work.

If you run into problems, the store usually shows messages explaining why the gift can’t be sent or redeemed. Double-check the recipient’s email and region settings before buying.

What to do if you can’t gift an app directly?

If the Microsoft Store doesn’t allow gifting the app you want, consider these alternatives:

• Purchase a Microsoft Store gift card for the recipient. They can redeem the card’s balance and buy the app themselves.
• Give a prepaid credit or debit card to fund their purchase.
• If the app supports family sharing or multi-device licenses, you can share it through Microsoft Family features.
• For games, check if gifting is available through Xbox Live or other platform-specific services.

These options let your recipient get the app even if direct gifting isn’t supported.

Conclusion

Gifting apps from the Microsoft Store is straightforward when the app supports it. Start by confirming the app’s gifting availability, then purchase it using the recipient’s email. The recipient redeems the gift via their Microsoft account on a compatible device. Be aware of regional and content restrictions that may affect gifting. If direct gifting isn’t possible, a Microsoft Store gift card is a practical alternative to help your recipient get the app they want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I gift subscriptions or in-app purchases through Microsoft Store?

No. Subscriptions and in-app purchases generally can’t be gifted. Gifting mostly applies to paid apps and games.

What if the recipient doesn’t have a Microsoft account?

They’ll need to create a free Microsoft account to redeem and use the gifted app.

Can apps be gifted across different countries or regions?

Gifting across regions can be restricted. Typically, both you and the recipient need compatible Microsoft Store regions for gifting and redemption.