Methods and systems for vicarious downloading or uploading of information are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, such a system involves a mobile device that includes a memory device capable of storing information or content, and at least one wireless communication component. The mobile device further includes a processing device coupled at least indirectly to the memory device and to the at least one wireless communication component, and a power source. The processing device is configured to determine at least one characteristic/condition pertaining in at least some manner to the mobile device. Also, the mobile device is configured to send a command message to another device when the at least one characteristic/condition is determined, the command message being configured cause the other device to perform vicariously a downloading or uploading of the information or content on behalf of the mobile device.