5 tech-inspired Valentine gifts for loved ones

As Valentine’s Day approaches, tech gifts are increasingly replacing traditional flowers and chocolates, as lovers look for more practical and lasting ways to express affection.

Smart watches, wireless earbuds and other technology products are topping wish lists across Nigeria and globally.

Demand typically spikes in the week leading up to February 14, with shoppers prioritising gadgets that combine romance, functionality and everyday convenience.

According to Deloitte’s 2025 Holiday Retail Survey, seasonal gift spending is indeed shifting, with younger generations leading a move toward intentional, high-utility, and experiential gifts amidst economic uncertainty.

“Nearly half of all consumers (47 percent) plan to give experiential gifts such as restaurant, event, and spa outings, highlighting a preference for shared experiences over physical goods,” the report stated.

The report noted that Gen Z is heavily utilising social media (74 percent) and Artificial Intelligence (43 percent) to find the best deals and curate gift lists.

Consumers are focusing on items that offer long-term value, with a notable interest in luxury items (44 percent of shoppers) as a worthy investment, Deloitte’s report stated.

Data from Statista, supported by reports from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), noted that consumer electronics consistently rank among the top global gift categories during major holiday sales events, including Black Friday and Christmas.

Wireless audio devices (headphones/earbuds), smartphones, and smart watches remain leading gift choices. In 2025, nearly 70 percent of consumers considered wireless headphones or earbuds as gifts.

While primarily focused on flowers and jewelry, Valentine’s Day is increasingly seeing technology gifts, with sales reaching high levels in 2026, driven by smart watches and wireless speakers, according to Statista.

Here are five tech gift ideas for your loved ones in this season:

Smart watches

Devices such as the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 remain popular Valentine’s picks.

Beyond telling what the time says, they track heart rate, sleep patterns and fitness goals which makes them ideal for partners focused on health and wellness.

Wearable tech has become symbolic of care and by gifting someone a smart watch just shows you care about their well-being.

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Wireless earbuds

These are ideal gifts for music lovers and music-themed gifts are trending.

Products like the AirPods Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM5 offer noise cancellation and premium sound quality, appealing to commuters and remote workers alike.

Streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music can also be gift subscriptions during the Valentine period by allowing couples to share playlists and favourite love songs.

Smartphones and Accessories

To make a gesture, smartphones remain a top-tier option and devices such as the iPhone 15 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 are among the most sought-after premium gifts.

More budget-friendly alternatives include stylish phone cases, power banks, or personalised pop sockets which are small but thoughtful additions that complement everyday gadgets.

Smart home devices

Smart speakers such as the Amazon Echo Dot and the Google Nest Mini are gaining traction among couples setting up homes together.

With voice assistants, partners can play music, set reminders, or even schedule romantic dinner playlists hands-free.

Smart LED lights that sync with music are also a good option which help create ambient settings for intimate evenings.

Gaming for bonding

Gaming consoles and accessories are another growing category. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X continue to dominate global sales, with couples increasingly exploring gaming as a shared hobby.

The shift toward tech gifts reflects broader consumer behaviour rather than fleeting gifts, many buyers now prefer items that integrate into their daily life.

As Valentine’s Day spending evolves, technology is striking the right balance between romance and practicality by offering gifts that keep on giving long after the roses fade.

Folake Balogun is a tech journalist covering Africa’s fast-growing digital economy with a strong focus on incisive analysis of startup trends, venture capital, and fintech innovation, while also exploring emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and the future of connectivity by highlighting their economic and social impact.

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