Stores Are Pushing Their Apps for the Holidays, and That Means Deal Perks for Shoppers

Black Friday is rapidly approaching, and every year retailers come up with new ways to shop. Just about every retail store in existence seems to have its own app now. Depending on the type of store, the benefits of those apps can vary widely.

However, retailers seem to be putting even more emphasis on their apps for holiday shopping, and that means customers have an opportunity to reap the rewards.

Amazon and Walmart Use Black Friday Access to Aquire New App Users

Earlier in the month, as we all eagerly awaited big Black Friday ads, Walmart decided to throw a curve ball and release its circular on its app first. That meant shoppers with the app had first access to the Walmart Black Friday ad, before it was officially released on the website.

Amazon took it a step further, however, by announcing that select Lightning Deals would be available on the app only, starting on Thanksgiving Day and running through December 9. So while Walmart fans could just wait for the Black Friday ad to make its way online, Amazon shoppers might feel a stronger incentive to download the store's app, lest they miss some of the best Amazon Black Friday deals.

SEE ALSO: This Amazon Hack Will Make Online Shopping So Much Easier

But Amazon pushing customers to the app doesn't mean you'll have to constantly check your phone all week for those deals; Amazon created a "Watch a Deal" function to alert shoppers through push notifications.

Target Offers Discounts for App Users Who Make a Wish List

But the app promotions don't end with Black Friday! Target is taking a unique approach to appeal to app users by offering savings for the holidays.

Customers who create a wish list via the Target Kids' Wish List app can receive 10% off almost everything on it, for a maximum discount of $100. That can lead to some serious savings, all just for taking the time to make a list of what your kids — or you! — want on the app.

Readers, do you know of other retailers offering similar incentives for downloading their apps? Are you going to download any of these apps to take advantage of holiday shopping deals? Sound off in the comments below!