It’s clear that digital photo frames have increased hugely in popularity over the past couple of years. They were certainly one of the most popular gift items for Christmas of 2008. During the last twelve months there were significant price cuts – in the first instance due to cuts in the cost of parts and materials and, in the latter half of the year, due to price positioning by the larger suppliers. However, whilst the lowered pricing was definitely a significant factor in the popularity of these frames it does not fully explain the increased sales figures.

Likewise, the technical features enjoyed are unlikely to account for the growing acceptance of digital photo frames into the mainstream. You can do slideshows – great. You can have background music – super. You get a remote control – wonderful. It’s all good stuff – but is it a big selling point for your mother or your granny? They are the most probable recipients of these frames after all.

Today digital frames are no longer the preserve of early adopters and gadget junkies but have entered the mainstream consumer area they are much more presentable. Whereas they were previously black and shiny metal devices it is now possible to get removable mounts which can be changed to suit the decor in your home. That certainly improves their mass market appeal, but it still doesn’t explain their popularity.

The main factor that makes these frames so ideal as gifts is the fact that they are both customisable and can be updated in future – two very important characteristics in this day and age. Many people will take the time to load up a few snapshots of the grand-children, children, family pet, recent holiday locations, old friends etc. before presenting their gift to Granny or Grandfather. They’re not just giving them some high tech gizmo; it’s a whole collection of memories in that nicely wrapped package isn’t it?

And it doesn’t stop there. For the next holiday, family celebration, birthday or whatever, they can simply pass over a memory card with a whole bunch of new snapshots on it – a kind of photographic family news bulletin if you like. Many of the newer frames even have Wi-Fi functionality so you can update photos without even using a new memory stick. Back to the technology – but only insofar as it facilitates the really important thing, the sharing of shared memories.