Apple released a new update to their Apple Store iOS app yesterday evening, adding a pair of intriguing new features. First, the Apple Store app now supports Siri. Asking Siri questions about Apple products, such as “How much is the new iPad mini,” brings you straight into the App Store app, and pulls up the appropriate product page, or at least the appropriate category.
The second feature is Passbook support for Apple gift cards, although oddly, the feature doesn’t actually seem to work yet (as noted by TheNextWeb). It’s possible that the feature simply sends a Passbook link automatically whenever you buy an email-delivered Apple gift card. But even if that’s the idea, the app doesn’t currently allow you to email Apple gift cards.
What’s New in Version 2.4
– Buy new gift cards and email them to friends and family right from the app. These gift cards are easily integrated with the new Passbook app (U.S. only, iOS 6 required).
– Ask Siri to help you find prices and shop for Apple products. (Siri-enabled device required.)
The Apple Store app, as always, is available as a free download from the App Store.
Update: You can now e-mail Apple Store gift cards through the app.
