- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- Technology
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every December 28
- Holiday emoji:
- ⬇️
National Download Day celebrates the vast world of digital content every December 28. From essential productivity apps to captivating streaming movies, our devices are filled with a universe of possibilities. Take this day to explore new software, declutter your digital library, or discover the next must-have app that enhances your daily life.
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History of National Download Day
Modern cell phones are less phones and more tiny, portable computers. In fact, when’s the last time you actually made a phone call on your mobile device? Most of our screen time is spent on apps — software designed for smartphones that lets us do everything from play games to make banking transactions.
The first cell phones were just that: phones. Early mobile users had to charge their phones for about 10 hours, and were limited to 30 minutes of phone calls a day. These rudimentary devices didn’t have the power or battery life to handle more complex tasks.
Needless to say, our screen time has gone up a bit since those days. Today, the average mobile phone user has 60 to 90 apps installed on their phone.
When mobile phones got smaller and more powerful, they began their transition from a phone and messaging device to a pocket computer that can do everything your PC can. Apple’s iPhone arguably ushered in a new era for apps, as its large, multi-touch display, digital keyboard, and fully functional web browser opened up new possibilities for what can be done on a phone.
In addition to the iPhone, Apple also changed the game when the App Store, a one-stop shop for digital apps, went online in 2008. In 2010, the American Dialect Society named “app” its word of the year, acknowledging how embedded it had become in American culture.
Today, one in five people around the world has a smartphone, and 85% of users say they prefer their mobile devices to desktop computers.
National Download Day timeline
Martin Cooper of Motorola makes the first mobile phone call using a device weighing almost 2.5 pounds.
IBM launches the first smartphone, which includes a contacts list, calendar, and calculator.
Palm Inc. introduces the first "personal digital assistant," later known as the Palm Pilot.
Apple releases the first iPhone, kicking off a new era in mobile devices and revolutionizing our relationship to cell phones.
National Download Day - Survey Results
National Download Day FAQs
When is National Download Day?
National Download Day 2026 falls on Monday, December 28, marking a perfect opportunity to refresh your digital life. It’s a day to appreciate the convenience of instant access to content.
How many apps are downloaded annually?
Globally, billions of mobile apps are downloaded each year. In 2026, projections suggest that app downloads will continue their upward trend, driven by new device sales and expanding digital ecosystems.
What are the most popular types of downloads?
In 2026, the most popular types of downloads continue to be mobile apps, especially games, social media, and entertainment platforms. Digital music, movies, and e-books also account for significant download volumes.
Why is December 28 National Download Day?
National Download Day, observed on December 28, was established to recognize the crucial role digital downloads play in modern life. It often falls after major holiday gift-giving, making it an ideal time for new device owners to download apps and content.
National Download Day Activities
Download some apps
Did you know you can use apps to stream live music, track airplane flight paths, or monitor how much water you drink? Take a look at today’s most popular downloads and you’ll find an app that does just what you need.
Try your hand at programming
If you want to try creating your own app, app-building tools like TheAppBuilder, Appery.io, Appy Pie, or many others will help you plan and design an app with little to no programming knowledge required.
Use an app to learn a new skill
Have you always wanted to learn a foreign language or master a new hobby, but don’t have the time to go take a class? Apps aren’t all games and social media. Many apps out there will help you learn or practice new skills from home and on the go.
5 Fascinating Facts About Smartphones
Your fridge is watching
A smartphone-enabled fridge can monitor temperature, help you make shopping lists, and stream your favorite shows in the kitchen.
Social beings
The most downloaded app of all time: Facebook.
Digital whoopee cushions
Shortly after the App Store's launch in 2008, fart noise apps became some of the most popular downloads in the store.
Endless apps
The Android Play Store has almost 3 million apps available for download.
Lonely apps
Almost two-thirds of apps in the Apple App Store have never been downloaded.
Why We Love National Download Day
It’s a fun excuse to try a new game or app
Celebrate the day by downloading a new game(or two) and start a tournament with your friends.
Apps can make us better
Apps aren’t just for gamers. We can use them to boost our productivity, connect with family across the world, manage our diet and exercise plans, and work on creative projects.
Apps are cheap
Compared to video game consoles, apps offer a lot of gaming for very little money. Forget spending hundreds of dollars on a console and games. Download some games for free and play on your phone now!
National Download Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 28 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 28 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 28 | Thursday |
| 2029 | December 28 | Friday |
| 2030 | December 28 | Saturday |
