Purchasing an "unlocked" phone from a manufacturer or retailer like Best Buy is the most flexible option. This allows the recipient to simply swap in their current SIM card or activate it on their own plan without you needing their account details.
The most effective way to gift a phone is often determined by the recipient's existing service setup: can i buy a phone for someone else
How to give a phone as a gift this holiday season | TechBuzz by AT&T Purchasing an "unlocked" phone from a manufacturer or
Yes, you can buy a phone for someone else, but the best approach depends on whether you want it to be a surprise, who is paying for the service, and whether the recipient is already on your cellular plan. who is paying for the service