How to Save Mobile Data While Using Web Apps

For many people, mobile data is a monthly expense that has to be managed carefully. Browsers, video calls and chat apps all use data, and some use much more than you expect. You do not have to stop using the internet; you only need to know where the data goes. These practical tips work on most Android phones and iPhones.

Check what is using your data

Open your phone settings and look for data usage. You will see which apps used the most data in the last month. Often a few apps, such as video streaming and social media, account for most of the total. Once you know the biggest consumers, you can control them.

Turn on data saver mode

Both Android and iPhone include a low data mode. It reduces background activity and prevents apps from updating or syncing when you are not using them. Most browsers also offer a lite mode that compresses pages and loads fewer images.

Control automatic downloads

• Switch off automatic video playback in social media apps.
• Set app updates to Wi-Fi only.
• Disable automatic photo and video downloads in chat apps when you are on mobile data.
• Pause cloud photo backups until you are connected to Wi-Fi.

Use Wi-Fi when it is available

Download large files, updates and videos while on a trusted Wi-Fi network at home, school or work. Be careful with public Wi-Fi: avoid entering passwords or banking details unless you are sure the connection is safe.

Reduce data in video calls

Video is the most data-hungry activity. In a meeting, switch the camera off when you do not need it, lower the video quality if the tool allows it and close other apps. Voice-only participation can use a fraction of the data of a full video call. Browser-based tools are also helpful because there is nothing large to download or update.

Be smart with browsing

Close tabs you are not using, because some pages keep refreshing in the background. Avoid autoplay videos and large image galleries. Bookmark the pages you visit regularly so that you do not need to search repeatedly.

Set a data limit

Phones allow you to set a warning when you approach your monthly limit. This simple alert prevents surprises and gives you time to adjust your habits before the bundle runs out.

Choose the right bundle

If you often run out of data, compare the available packages of your provider. Night bundles, weekly packages and social media bundles can be much cheaper per megabyte than a standard top-up. Small changes in habit, combined with the right package, can make your data last far longer.