It seems like every day, our mobile data limits get smaller and smaller while the cost of our plans remains the same. This can be frustrating for those of us who rely heavily on our phones for streaming music, watching videos, or even just checking email. Fortunately, there are some proven ways to save mobile data on both Android and iOS devices.
In this blog post, we will share some of the easiest and most effective ways to help you save data no matter what your mobile device is. Let’s begin!
- Disable Unnecessary Apps
Many apps use a lot of background data without you even realizing it. Unfortunately, a mobile plan can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for high or unlimited data allowances. To save mobile data, make sure you only have apps running that you actually need. This way, you won’t be wasting precious megabytes on something that doesn’t add any value to you. You can disable unnecessary apps by going into your settings menu and manually turning off the ones you don’t need or use often.
It would also be helpful to offload any unused apps to your mobile’s overall performance. So, consider doing this every now and then, especially if you easily get persuaded by ads of certain apps, like mobile games.
- Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible
You should always try to connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is available because it is much faster than using your cellular data connection. So, let’s say you’re in your house with HughesNet internet; ensure to make the switch before doing any online activities. Many people usually forget this, especially those who turn their WiFi off.
In addition, connecting to Wi-Fi will also help you save mobile data since most wireless networks offer unlimited access without counting against your monthly usage limit. Just make sure you’re connecting to a secure network before sending any sensitive information over the internet!
- Restrict Background Data Usage
Did you know that many apps continue to run in the background even when they aren’t actively being used? This can be a huge drain on your phone’s battery as well as your monthly data allotment, so it’s best to restrict their background usage whenever possible. On most Android phones, this option can be found in the device’s Settings app under “Data Usage.” For iOS users, this option is located in the “Cellular” section of the Settings app.
- Download Content Ahead of Time
Providing a download option and offline viewing feature may just be the best thing that has ever happened to people who are trying to save data. Fortunately, most apps have these features, from Netflix and YouTube to Google documents.
If you know that you’re going to need access to certain content while away from home or on an available Wi-Fi network, then download it ahead of time when connected over a wired connection instead! Whether your home has Xfinity, AT&T, or Dish Network Internet, all of your important documents and media files will already be accessible without having to worry about eating up all of your mobile data allowances in one go.
- Turn Off Automatic App Updates
Automatic app updates are great for keeping all of your software up-to-date with minimal effort, but they can also quickly eat away at your monthly allowance if left unchecked! To avoid this issue altogether, turn off automatic updates within each app by going into its individual settings menu (on either Android or iOS). If necessary, manual updates can still be performed at any time over a secure Wi-Fi connection instead.
- Avoid using desktop versions of websites when browsing on your phone.
Mobile versions of websites are optimized for low bandwidth usage and can save you a lot of data in the long run. Unfortunately, many people still opt for the desktop version or simply don’t know the difference between the mobile and desktop versions. So, the next time you visit a website on your phone, make sure to choose the mobile version if it is available. It may not look as “nice,” but it will save data.
Conclusion
Saving mobile data may feel like an uphill battle, but with these five simple but effective tips in mind, it doesn’t have to be! By disabling unnecessary apps, making use of nearby Wi-Fi networks whenever possible, restricting background usage where appropriate, and downloading content ahead of time when needed—you’ll be able to conserve more megabytes each month than ever before! So what are you waiting for? Get started today and see just how much further those precious megabytes will take you!
