Modern video players (HLS, DASH) use "progressive download"—the file saves to a cache while you watch. True downloading (saving a permanent file) is now a premium feature.

Two trends are reshaping downloading:

Digital Rights Management (DRM) is becoming stricter. Ultraviolet failed; Movies Anywhere is succeeding. Future downloads may require periodic "check-in" via satellite or short-range radio to prevent mass redistribution.

With 5G mmWave, downloading a 4K movie might take 4 seconds. However, to reduce network strain, ISPs will use "edge caching"—storing popular downloads at local nodes so they don't have to travel far.

Platforms will predict what you want before you know it. Spotify already "pre-caches" Liked songs. Future devices will download the next episode of a show based on your sleep schedule or commute time.