.DOWNLOAD File Extension

A DOWNLOAD file is a file that is currently being downloaded from the Internet or was stopped before the download finished. It is created by the Apple Safari web browser, which is bundled with the macOS operating system. DOWNLOAD files may be double-clicked to begin the download of the file again through Safari.

When Safari is downloading a file, the .download extension is appended onto the file that is being downloaded. For example, when the file example.mp4 is being downloaded, it becomes example.mp4.download. Once the download is complete, Safari removes the .download extension and the file is ready to be used. You will most likely only see DOWNLOAD files in your "Downloads" folder during a download.

If your download was interrupted before it was finished, it may be possible to recover the file. Delete the .download extension then open it with the appropriate program. If you try this method and still cannot open the file you should delete the file and download it again.

Some P2P file sharing websites also save active downloads with the .download extension. The appropriate file extension is typically added once the download is complete.

NOTE: DOWNLOAD files are similar to .CRDOWNLOAD files, which are used by Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge for partial downloads.