Can AI pick the perfect UN Bookshop gift better than a human?

The annual Blue Friday campaign reminds us that the holidays are about more than gifts, they’re about sharing joy, and purpose with those who matter most. This year, we added a twist: Can AI pick the “perfect UN Bookshop gift” better than a human?

For each gift category, we had ChatGPT and an actual human choose a gift for a special person in their lives, and then asked the actual recipient which gift they preferred. The results were heartwarming. 

$15 and under — for a parent 

• Rocío’s pick for her mom: Hello Kitty charm 

• AI’s pick: Colour-changing pencils 

“My mom loves anything cute and meaningful, so I’m getting her the Hello Kitty charm,” said Rocío Yáñez, Inclusive Social Development Intern at the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. “It’s a small gift, but it reminds me of home, and it’s nice to bring her something from the UN.” 

Her mom confirmed she’d prefer “something cute to hang on her bag.” 

Winner: Hello Kitty charm - human’s choice (1–0 for humans).

$25 and under — for a colleague 

• Idil’s pick for her colleague: UN T-shirt

• AI’s pick: Appeel journal  

“During the NYC Marathon, I spotted another runner wearing a UN T-shirt. We exchanged a quick smile and a few words” said Idil Üner, Digital Communications Specialist at UNICEF. “That moment of connection is why it makes such a meaningful gift and why I’d get one for my colleague for the holidays.”  

The colleague preferred the T-shirt for its personal meaning.  

Winner: UN T-shirt - human intuition (2–0).

$50 and under — for a sibling 

• Holly’s pick for her brother: Soccer ball 

• AI’s pick: Beanie hat 

“My younger brother loves soccer. It’s how he connects with his friends after university,” said Holly Ibrahim, Renewable Energy Intern from the Department of Operational Support. “The ball is a fun way to share what I’m doing here at the UN.” 

Her brother’s response was immediate: “The soccer ball, obviously.”  

Winner: Soccer ball- Humans again (3–0).

Our experiment shows that for personal, heartfelt gifts, humans still know best. This Blue Friday, find meaningful presents at the UN Bookshop and online and share joy, and connection.

And for a limited time only (18-28 November), receive a free special edition lens cloth with every purchase of $50* or more.  

*Transaction total excludes the cost of shipping. Merchandise does not include print and digital books. One free item per purchase while supplies last.