How do I reduce data usage on my Android?

The Android OS offer many ways to lower data usage, including limiting background data usage or stopping automatic updates.

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Android devices have a Data Saver setting to prevent users from going over their subscribed bucket.  Using the Data Saver will help cut down on data usage by preventing apps from using data in the background when they are closed.

Activate the Data Saver by following the below steps:

  1. Pull down from the top of the phone for the Quick Settings menu and tap onto Settings
  2. Tap Connections and into Data Usage
  3. Select Data Saver and turn it on
Android Data Saver toggle

 

Other ways you can save data on the Android phone would be to ensure you do not have the phone set to Switch to Mobile Data when the WiFi connection is slow:

  1. Pull down from the top of the screen of the phone for the Quick Settings menu and tap on Settings
  2. Tap onto Connections and then Wi-Fi
  3. Select the 3 dots in the upper right corner and select Advanced
  4. Make sure Switch to mobile data is in the off position
Switch to mobile data setting

 

Many apps have built in Data Saver settings - For example in the Facebook app itself:

  1. Open the Facebook app
  2. Tap the 3 lines menu at the top right and tap Settings & Privacy
  3. Tap on Settings and under Preferences tap on Media
  4. Check the box next to Data Saver
  5. Auto play has 2 options that will save data "On Wifi Only" and "Never Autoplay Videos"
Facebook media settings

 

Tech Support Tip: If you are trying to save data for a specific app but unsure where to find the option, do a Google search for “How to save data for **app name** "

If you believe a specific application is causing high data usage, we recommend the article: How do I monitor data usage on my Android?

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Updated on Wed, 12 Jun 2024 by Sean Otway

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