Introduction: The Plight of the Procrastinating Shopper
As the holiday season accelerates, many find themselves in the familiar whirlwind of last-minute shopping. You’re not alone if you’re scrambling for gifts. With many shoppers identifying as procrastinators and a noticeable spike in searches for “overnight shipping” in December, the need for efficient shopping solutions is more pressing than ever.
1. Instant Gift-Finding with Google: Filter for Fast Products
Facing the Crunch Time
With the holidays looming and gift lists still unchecked, choosing the right present can be overwhelming, especially when pressed for time. A common hurdle is finding gifts that can be delivered promptly.
Google’s Quick-Filter Solution
To address this, Google has introduced a nifty feature in its search engine. Now, whether you’re browsing on mobile or desktop in the U.S., you can utilize the “Get it by Dec 24” filter. This tool helps you discover products guaranteed to arrive by Christmas Eve. During other times of the year, the “Get it fast” filter serves a similar purpose. It highlights products available for rapid delivery or those in stock nearby, along with the merchant’s delivery options and charges.
2. Package Tracking Integrated in Gmail
The Anxiety of Last-Minute Deliveries
Ordering gifts at the eleventh hour often means anxiously tracking their delivery status.
Gmail’s Tracking Ease
Gmail in the U.S. has streamlined this process. The service now prominently displays delivery updates in your inbox, whether on mobile or desktop. This feature is particularly handy when there are changes in the delivery schedule. Google is also enhancing this functionality, including prioritizing emails with updated tracking info in your inbox.
You can enable this feature in your Gmail settings, where Gmail will automatically update you on the status of your orders using available tracking numbers. Opt-out is also available in the settings.
3. Hassle-Free Returns with Google
When Gifts Miss the Mark
Despite careful selection, sometimes a gift just doesn’t resonate as expected.
Easing the Return Process
Google simplifies finding return policies. Following the delivery of your package, Google will provide a link to the merchant’s return guidelines at the top of shopping-related emails. This feature is available on both desktop and mobile in the U.S. Additionally, Google Search displays return policies, such as “free 90-day returns,” in product listings and merchant sites.
Conclusion: Transform Your Last-Minute Shopping Experience
Google’s latest features are a boon for last-minute shoppers, transforming a typically stressful experience into a manageable and efficient one. Whether it’s finding the right gift quickly, tracking your packages with ease, or facilitating returns, Google has you covered this holiday season.