WordPress.com Acquires Day One Journaling App

Automattic Acquires Day One Journaling App

Automattic, the company behind several prominent online platforms, has broadened its portfolio with the acquisition of Day One, a highly-regarded journaling application designed for Mac and Apple mobile devices. Since its initial release in March 2011, the app has achieved over 15 million downloads across the Mac and iTunes App Store, providing users with a secure and personal space for recording their experiences.

Throughout its history, Day One has received significant recognition, including the App Store Editor’s Choice award, being named App of the Year, and earning an Apple Design Award. These accolades, alongside positive reviews, demonstrate the app’s quality and user appeal.

Financial Details and Background

The specifics of the acquisition deal have not been publicly revealed. Notably, Day One operated for a decade as a bootstrapped and self-funded entity.

This acquisition represents a strategic expansion for Automattic, adding to its existing suite of writing tools. Currently, this collection includes the popular blogging platforms WordPress.com and Tumblr, which Automattic acquired from Verizon in 2019.

Focus on Privacy and Features

A key differentiator between Day One and Automattic’s other platforms is its emphasis on user privacy. The application employs end-to-end encryption to safeguard all journal entries, encompassing text, media, and audio recordings.

Day One offers a comprehensive set of features, including automatic backups, Instagram post importing, voice transcriptions, customizable templates, rich text formatting, location tracking, and the option to create printed books.

Furthermore, the app integrates with various other services, such as Spotify, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.

Integration with Automattic Platforms

Following the acquisition, Day One users will gain the ability to selectively publish journal entries to both WordPress.com and Tumblr.

Conversely, content can also be imported from these platforms back into Day One, offering a seamless workflow.

This integration could prove particularly valuable for Tumblr users seeking a more secure and reliable method for storing private entries, preventing accidental public posting.

Leadership and Future Plans

Automattic has announced that Paul Mayne will continue to lead Day One’s development post-acquisition.

The existing Day One team of 12 employees will also remain intact, ensuring continuity and expertise.

Mayne emphasized the smooth integration process, stating that current customers will experience no disruptions to service.

Rationale Behind the Sale

In a blog post, Mayne explained that the acquisition will provide Day One with access to Automattic’s technological resources, financial stability, and security infrastructure.

“Joining Automattic ensures the preservation and longevity of Day One,” Mayne stated, expressing confidence in the app’s future.

He also affirmed that the app’s commitment to user privacy will remain unchanged, while integration with other Automattic products will continue.

Existing subscription pricing will not be altered.