Helpful tips to minimize data usage on Android devices

Posted on Wednesday January 04, 2023

The introduction of new mobile apps with sophisticated features has caused mobile data consumption to skyrocket over the last few years. Reducing data usage on Android devices has become an increasingly difficult task for many users. In this article, we will share helpful tips for reducing data usage on Android devices. Whether you want to save money or conserve battery life, these steps can make all the difference.

Monitor your apps’ data usage

To effectively reduce data consumption on your Android device, it is essential to identify the source of the issue. A great first step in this process is reviewing your current data usage.

If you're running an older version of Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIM card & mobile network > Data usage to see your current data usage.

For newer Android versions all the way up to 2021's Android 12, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > App data usage.

Carefully examine the details and identify data-hungry apps on your device. Social media apps and streaming services are likely the ones that are consuming too much mobile data.

Disable background data usage

Apps such as Facebook, Skype, and other similar services tend to continually keep in touch with their parent servers to refresh data at regular intervals. Even if you aren't actively using these apps, they continue to run in the background and can use a huge amount of data.

You can easily prevent these apps from draining your cellular data by disabling background data use. Here are the steps to do it.

1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Select the appropriate app from the displayed list.
3. Under App info, go to Mobile data and deactivate the Background data option.

Use Wi-Fi

By regularly connecting to Wi-Fi networks, you can reduce your use of costly cellular data. To make sure you’re connected to your Wi-Fi network, go to Settings > Network & internet and turn on the Wi-Fi option.

If you’re outside and want to connect to a public Wi-Fi network, make sure you’re using a virtual private network. This prevents hackers from spying on your online activities.

Limit the use of streaming apps

When using your device's mobile data, it's best to avoid streaming music and videos. Instead, opt for storing them locally or downloading them when you are connected to Wi-Fi to minimize data consumption.

For more Android tips and tricks, give our experts a call today.