Apple Removes Option to Purchase Gift Cards by Email [Update: Added Back]

Apple recently removed the option to purchase Apple Store or iTunes gift cards by email from its U.S. website, eliminating the ability to buy e-gift cards.

The option to purchase physical Apple Store or iTunes gift cards by mail remains on Apple's website, while both physical and e-gift cards remain available from third-party resellers such as Walmart and Staples.

Apple previously allowed customers to purchase digital gift cards and send them by email. The purchaser selected a card design and value, and composed a birthday wish or similar message for the recipient.

The change appears limited to the U.S. for now, as Apple continues to sell Apple Store and iTunes gift cards by email in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Update (September 16): Apple has restored the page for purchasing gift cards by email in the United States.