all-about-apple-gift-cards-its-uses-in-2025
All About Apple Gift Cards & its Uses in 2025
September 18, 2025
Like everything Apple creates, Apple Gift Cards carry the same touch of simplicity and innovation. They were first introduced as a convenient way to purchase apps, games, and digital content in 2008 but they have evolved a lot since then. Today in 2025, Apple gift cards have become way more versatile and can be used across multiple Apple services and products.
For an everyday user, they may just look like another prepaid card. But for loyal Apple users, their real value is undeniable. These cards unlock apps, subscriptions, iCloud storage, hardware, and much more. Now let’s get into more details about Apple Gift Cards and explore their uses in 2025.
You can use an Apple Gift Card to buy all sorts of apps, games, and premium features directly from the App Store.
Services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and Apple News+ can all be paid for using Apple Gift Cards. This means you can enjoy your favorite subscriptions without linking a credit card.
Who doesn't need more space for their photos, videos, and files? Apple Gift Cards can be used to upgrade your iCloud storage plan and ensure your data is safely backed up.
You can use your Apple gift card balance toward buying new devices from Apple’s online or physical stores using your Apple gift card.
Many apps and games on the App Store offer add-ons, coins, or special features. Apple Gift Cards can cover these in-app purchases.
Apple Gift Cards are also a perfect way to send someone credit they can use however they like.
If however you have received an Apple gift card and you don't want to use it on anything that we shared above, you can always sell your Apple gift card on Tbay for cash.
Apple has offered different kinds of gift cards over the years, and each one has had its own purpose. Until 2021, there were two main types of cards: iTunes Gift Cards and Apple Store gift cards. In 2021, Apple simplified things by introducing a new all-in-one Apple Gift Card, which is now the most popular option.
Here’s a quick look at the different types and their uses:
These cards were widely used before 2021 and are still available in many countries. They allow users to purchase apps, songs, movies, e-books, and in-app content. Many people still have these cards, and they remain valid for digital content purchases on the App Store and iTunes.
These cards could only be used to buy Apple hardware and accessories from Apple’s retail and online stores. They were separate from iTunes cards and meant for physical products like iPhones, iPads, AirPods, or MacBooks.
This is the current and most versatile version. The Apple Gift Card combines all the functions of the older cards into one. The introduction of the new Apple Gift Card makes it easier for users since one card can now be used across the entire Apple ecosystem.
Using an Apple Gift Card is very easy. All you need is your gift card code and you can redeem your card directly to your Apple ID and then use the balance for apps, subscriptions, or even Apple products. Here’s how you can redeem and start using your card:
Open the App Store.
Tap your profile icon at the top right.
Select Redeem Gift Card or Code.
Use your camera to scan the code or enter it manually.
The balance will be added instantly to your Apple ID.
Open the App Store.
Click your name at the bottom of the sidebar.
Choose “Redeem Gift Card”.
Enter the code manually or scan with your Mac’s camera.
Open iTunes.
Go to Account → Redeem.
Sign in with your Apple ID and enter the gift card code.
At checkout, choose Apple Gift Card balance as your payment method. You can also combine it with another payment method if the balance isn’t enough.
If you face any issues while redeeming a card, here is our blog about Common Apple gift card errors and how to resolve them.
Before you redeem or spend your Apple Gift Card, it’s important to go through a few quick checks. This helps you avoid issues and ensures you get the most out of your balance.
Apple Gift Cards need to be activated at the time of purchase. If you bought it from a store, confirm that the cashier activated it. If it’s an online purchase, check your email for the activation confirmation.
Always confirm the amount on your card before redeeming. You can check the balance easily by visiting the Apple Gift Card balance page. If you are unfamiliar with the process, read our blog to check Apple gift card balance.
Once redeemed, the balance is tied to your Apple ID and cannot be transferred. Double-check you are signed in with the right account, especially if you have multiple Apple IDs.
Apple Gift Cards are region-specific. For example, a card bought in the U.S. cannot be used on an Apple ID registered in the U.K. Make sure your card matches your account’s country or region.
If you have a physical card, gently scratch to reveal the code. Make sure it’s visible and hasn’t been tampered with. A damaged code may not work and might require Apple Support assistance.
Apple Gift Cards generally do not expire, but it’s still wise to use them in time. Also, remember that once redeemed, the balance stays in your Apple ID until spent.
Only buy Apple Gift Cards from trusted stores or Apple directly. Scammers often sell fake or already-used cards at discounted rates.
We mentioned above in the blog that if you are not planning on utilizing your Apple card balance anytime soon, you have the choice to sell it for cash in Nigeria. Tbay makes selling your apple gift card a breeze. Here are the easy steps that you can follow:
Install the Tbay app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Sign up in a minute with your email to create an account.
From the homepage, select Apple Gift Card from the list of available options.
Input your Apple Gift Card value (e.g., $50, $100, or more). Upload clear pictures of the Apple gift card or provide the digital code.
Tbay will display the current exchange rate in Naira. Review the offer and confirm if you’re satisfied.
Once the card is verified, the payment will be processed. Funds are sent directly to your Tbay account quickly and securely which you can withdraw into your bank account.
1. Is there a difference between Apple & iTunes Gift Cards?
Yes, there is. Read more about the difference between apple gift card and itunes gift card in this blog.
2. What is the difference between horizontal and vertical Apple Gift Cards?
The difference is purely in design orientation. Some cards are printed horizontally, while others are vertical. Functionally, both work the same way. (You can find more details about this in the blog about Horizontal Vs Vertical apple gift cards)
3. Where to buy Apple Gift Cards?
The most secure way to buy Apple Gift Cards is directly from the official Apple website or Apple retail stores. While some authorized resellers also sell them, it’s important to avoid unverified third-party websites to reduce the risk of scams or fake cards.
4. Do Apple Gift Cards expire?
No, Apple Gift Cards do not expire. Once redeemed, the balance stays in your Apple ID until you spend it.
Join Gate Park today and experience the limitless possibilities of AI
