The Apple App Store, where users can download software for their iPad 4, iPad mini or iPhone, is turning five years old this week. To celebrate the occasion, Apple will be offering several programs for free for a limited time.

The App Store began as an update to iTunes on July 10, 2008. Since then, the company has sold over 50 billion apps while also revolutionizing the way people are able to purchase software for their devices. Since its introduction, many other companies have tried to emulate the App Store, including Google, Amazon and Samsung.

Here are some of the apps that will be offered for free:

• Barefoot World Atlas: This program provides children and students with an interactive, 3-dimensional atlas of the world, complete with information about different countries, landmarks and peoples. It is a great educational too for teachers and parents.

• Day One: Keep a journal of photos, words and places with this simple software, which also allows you to share items with friends.

• Where's My Water?: One of the most popular games in the App Store, this puzzler is a great way to kill time when you're waiting in line at the DMV or sitting at the bus stop.

• Badland: Another great game, this one has drawn a lot of attention from players who admire the sophisticated visual design.

These and other apps are likely to be free only for the next week, so make sure you head over to the App Store to download them all while you can.

In the meantime, if you're wondering what all the fuss over Apple mobile devices is about, check out the latest deals on these products at PortableOne.