6 simple steps to lessen your data usage
Mobile data. Where would we be without it? Mobile phones are so much more than a simple device to make and receive phone calls as they were 30 years ago.
Flash forward to the 2020s and we can fit all the world’s knowledge right into the palm of our hand.
How we use and make the most of our data is up to us.
Find out 6 simple ways to lessen your data usage.
Get informed
It’s said knowledge is power, and the same goes for knowing your data. Take a moment to find out how much data you’re using on a day-to-day basis, and most importantly, what apps chew through your data the most.
You can find out by going through your phone settings.
If you’re using iOS, go to Settings > Mobile or Settings > Cellular. Here you’ll discover what apps are the true data drainers.
For Android users, navigate to Settings > Connections > Data Usage > Mobile Data Usage.
Want to see graphs and further details? Tap App data usage. Tap the down arrow and discover how much data each app uses.
Switch to Wi-Fi
Many of us already connect to Wi-Fi when at home. Out and about, on the other hand, is when we typically rely on our mobile data to comment, like, scroll and share online.
A simple change is choosing your ideal location to download and stream. For example, downloading using Wi-Fi instead of streaming on your mobile data is a smart move.
We’re not saying to not use your phone at all in public. That’s a challenge. We’re simply suggesting you download podcasts and shows instead. Did you know Apple Podcasts, Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube all have offline options?
While generally not as dependable, powerful, or secure, many public places and public transport have free Wi-Fi up for grabs, as well.
Disable the extras
While on the topic of Wi-Fi, there’s a handy feature on iPhones and Androids called Wi-Fi Assist and Smart Network Switch.
These little features give your Wi-Fi a boost when it’s moving slowly.
Yes, it’s helpful in theory, these features use your data. All without you knowing it.
Want to free up some data? Disable these features in your phone’s settings.
Close your apps
Switching from app to app doesn’t mean your smartphone or tablet closes them. After all, they’re called smartphones for a reason. This means your apps are still running in the background when not in use.
Get into the good habit of shutting your apps when you’re finished with them. Simply flick up on the app, swipe it away and watch as you free up some of your data.
Turn your phone off
Sure, you might need your phone for work and for play, but for all forms of leisure? Probably not.
When out for a walk with your dog, or enjoying a good hardcover book, at a wedding ceremony or concert – these are just some occasions where your phone can be turned off.
Taking a break from screen time can boost both your mental and physical health. Why not go out and enjoy nature? Switching your phone off when not needed (and you don’t need to be contactable), doesn’t cost you a cent!
Set data alerts and limits
Do you have a history of going over your data limit? Perhaps a gentle reminder will put a stop to this!
To set a data limit on iOS, navigate to Mobile Security app > Data Usage > Cellular tab > Settings icon > Data Plan and switch off Unlimited Plan. You can also enter how much your data plan is under DATA LIMITATION, selecting gigabytes (GB) or megabytes (MB) under UNIT.
For Android users, open Settings > Network & Internet > Internet. Next to your carrier, tap Settings > Data warning & limit > Set data warning. Select Data warning (underneath set data warning). This enables you to set a number, by tapping the down arrow to switch between MB and GB. To finish, tap Set.
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