10 Tips On How To Save On Data Usage

Introduction

In the digital age of today, managing data usage is essential for you if you rely on mobile devices and want to learn how to save on data usage. Now, whether you have a limited data plan or simply want to make the most out of your data pack, there are many ways to save mobile data.

So, in the sections below we will be talking about the top strategies you can use to extract the most out of your data allowance while you reduce data consumption. Deploy the ones that fit your lifestyle most aptly. Let’s get started.

1. Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible

The first strategy on how to save on data usage is to obviously use Wifi as much as possible. Be it at home, at work, or in public places like cafes and libraries, Wifi connections rid you of the guilt of overconsuming your data pack. In addition, remember to use only those Wi-Fi networks and encourage your device to remember these networks for automatic connection. 

Also, Wi-Fis are faster and more stable than mobile data, which can also enhance your browsing experience by providing you with a way to save internet data. However, you must also be mindful of the potential risks of using public Wi-Fi; you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to stay safe.

2. Monitor Your Data Usage

Secondly, if you want to know how to save on data usage then you should monitor your data usage and ensure that you don’t cross the limit. You can use the data monitoring feature in your phone to save mobile data or if you want to get more stringent then you can find a host of applications online that will keep your data usage in check, ensuring your peace of mind.

And once you’ve become familiar with these features, you must then move on to setting up alerts that notify you when you reach certain data thresholds, helping you reduce data consumption. But also remember to not be too strict with yourself, or else you might just end up enjoying none of your international SIM plans. 

3. Limit Background Data Usage

Thirdly, we’d advise that you check the background usage of each of the apps that you have on your phone. Because in most cases you might not have suspected these apps of overusing your data, and as a result, you’ll be unable to save mobile data. And you’ll find this feature inside your phone’s settings.

Also, by limiting your data usage you not only limit your data usage but also improve your device’s battery life. Some apps, like social media platforms and email clients, frequently sync in the background. You must adjust their settings to sync manually or only over Wi-Fi to further reduce unnecessary data consumption. And that’s how to save on data usage.

4. Download Content for Offline Use

Moving forward with how to save on data usage, we would also advise you to download the content you consume for offline use because the frequent ads that are displayed here and there eat away at your data plan slowly. And before you’ve realised, you get an SMS saying you’ve consumed 90% of your data and a few minutes after that 100% of your data.

And honestly, buying premium versions of apps like YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, Apple Music and so on will reduce data consumption in the long run. The offline feature of these apps comes in so much handy when you’re looking to save some extra MBs or GBs of data. Also, the uninterrupted experience is also something that’s worth paying for.

5. Optimise App Settings

Now, let’s talk about the settings that allow you to reduce data consumption. Like for example, almost all social media apps often have options to limit the quality of photos and videos or to even disable auto-play for videos. And by adjusting these settings, you’ll get a good idea of how to save on data usage.

Also, apps like Facebook Lite and Instagram Lite are streamlined versions of their full apps that use less data and can operate on significantly low data speeds. And surprisingly, the user interface is also more or less intact. So, consider this option and see yourself save internet data hugely. 

6. Update Apps and System Software Over Wi-Fi

So, if you’re a smartphone user, the need for you to update it regularly is quite frequent. So, in such cases, you never realise when these features steal away from your daily quota of data. So, it's advisable to switch off automatic updates and you can even switch on the option of ‘Update Over Wi-Fi Only’; this is one of the most preferred way methods of answering how to save on data usage.

And to save mobile data on Android, go to the Google Play Store settings and select "Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only." On iOS, go to Settings > App Store and enable "App Updates" under the Automatic Downloads section when connected to Wi-Fi.

7. Use Data-Saving Browsers

Additionally on how to save on data usage, you can also use data-saving browsers such as Google Chrome and Opera Mini. These browsers offer features that compress web pages and reduce data usage. You see, these browsers can significantly lower the amount you would use while using the internet.

Most of these apps also come with data-saving modes that limit the amount of data that would be consumed. And the browser, Opera Mini has an “Extreme mode” that allows you to compress your data up to 90%. This browser will be particularly helpful to you if you are browsing in areas with poor network usage.

8. Use Offline Navigation

Lastly, we’d say that you should also consider using apps like Google Maps as judiciously as you can as a means to answer how to save on data usage. You can download the offline versions of these maps and then navigate because let’s face it, maps consume a huge deal of data. 

On Google Maps, you can download maps by going to the app, selecting the area you want to save, and then tapping “Download”. This will allow you to use navigation features without using your mobile data. Additionally, this can also help you build your social muscle as the less you use your phone, the more you’ll need to talk to people for directions, helping you save internet data.

‍

So, all in all, working around how to save on data usage doesn’t have to be complicated at all. By following these eight tips, you can make the most out of your data plan and avoid unexpected charges. Then be it using Wi-Fi or offline maps, these tips ensure that you not only save mobile data but also not compromise on your data usage as a result. Yes, following them in the beginning will be a bit tough but you’ll eventually get used to it. All the best!