Whether you’re still shopping for textbooks or already eager to sell your book load back, Amazon Student, a new app for iPhone and iPod touch, is specifically designed for students looking for the best book deals.
Of course, being a student isn’t a pre-req for using Amazon Student, but those enrolled in higher education will get the most out of the app’s offerings. At the start of the semester, students should turn to the Buy Stuff section, which offers a search bar and bar-code scanner. This is especially useful if you’re shopping in-store and want to quickly compare prices before loading up your basket. A randomly selected anthropology title at my alma mater’s bookstore runs a hefty $124, new. Amazon offered the same book for $90, with used versions coming in less than $70. It’s wise to shop around. The app doesn’t currently support Kindle downloads, but you can at least see if the text is available for digital rental, which could save you some cash upfront.
Linking your Amazon account to the app is simple, and that makes buying from the mega etailer even easier. You can add books to your cart or to a wish list, and once you’ve purchased, track the order in the “Your Account” section. The app will find anything available on Amazon, too, so don’t think textbooks are your only option.
When its time to unload those books you’ll never read again, use the bar-code scanner in “Sell Your Stuff” to get a quote of what Amazon will pay for your item. If you like the offer, ship your product to Amazon free, and get a gift card in return. There’s no guarantee the price offered will be any good, but it’s a nice comparison tool to have on hand.
Don’t forget to register your account with Amazon Student. If you have a .edu email addy, you’re eligible for a free six months of Amazon Prime, which offers you free two-day shipping and release-date delivery, and 50 percent off the annual fee thereafter.
Download the free Appolicious iPhone app
