How Do I Turn On Low Data Mode?

Here’s how to turn on Low Data Mode on your iPhone for Wi-Fi and Mobile Data.

Turn on Low Data Mode for Wi-Fi

Turn on Low Data Mode for Mobile Data

If you own an iPhone 13, you might also look into the Smart Data Mode feature on your device. For 4G, LTE, or a Dual SIM, turn on Low Data Mode.

What Is Low Data Mode?

Although data usage reduction can vary by app, there are some commonalities when you use Low Data Mode on your iPhone.

The Background App Refresh setting is off. The Automatic settings for Downloads and Backups are off. Streaming quality for things like music or video may diminish. Apps may stop using network data if you aren’t currently and actively using them.

App-Specific Changes You’ll also experience differences in how some iOS apps and services work when you turn on Low Data Mode.

App Store: Automatic updates, downloads, and video auto-play are off.FaceTime: The bitrate is configured for lower bandwidth.iCloud: Updates are paused, and automatic backups and updates for iCloud Photos are off.Music: Automatic downloads and high-quality streaming are off.News: Advanced retrieval of articles is off.Podcasts: Episodes only download over Wi-Fi, and feed updates are limited.

Should I Use Low Data Mode?

If you have a service plan that limits your data usage rather than one with unlimited data or are traveling or in a location with low data speeds, such as some rural areas, using Low Data Mode can help reduce usage. To see how much mobile data you’re using, open your Settings and select either Cellular or Mobile Data, depending on your service plan. You can view how much mobile data you’re using in the current period, how much the System Services use, and how much each app uses.