Digital photoframes that allow friends and relatives to send holiday images direct to the owner's mantelpiece are set to replace the humble postcard, according to a high street retailer.

PC World reported a nine-fold increase in year-on-year sales of the wireless slim-line frames which resemble conventional picture frames but can be set to scroll through a series of images.

"If you are on holiday or at a party you can send digital pictures direct to the frame via an internet connection," said PC World marketing chief Niall O'Keeffe.

"We suspect that this will lead to a decline in the postcard as this digital alternative emerges, although whether or not we will see a similar level of sauciness in the pictures is anyone's guess."

Other possible uses for a digital photo frame include:

• Resolving mantelpiece photo politics when the in-laws visit
• Announcing the kids' latest sporting triumph to a distant relative
• Birthday greetings
• Visual evidence that the relationship is over
• Updates from office parties (handle with care!)
• A second opinion while on a shopping trip
• A second opinion on a date
• 'Impress the boss' images in the frame on your desk