How do you keep your mobile data usage down?

indesisiv

Make sure that app updates etc are wifi only.
Make sure email isn't automatically downloading attachments, pictures etc.
Keep an eye on data usage during the month.
Don't watch too much TV, youtube, and make sure facebook isn't auto playing videos.
Lastly don't take out a contract without making sure that you have enough data for your usage!

Frozen_up_north

indesisiv wrote: »

Make sure that app updates etc are wifi only

I've noticed an anomaly with my iPhone 5 running iOS 8.1.1 (not yet updated to the latest 8.1.2). When I check the App Store for updates the GarageBand update is shown as pending, however as it is over 500 MB it should only update when next connected to WiFi... Yet a short while later, with no WiFi connection (and WiFi turned off), it has mysteriously updated -presumably over my 3G phone connection!

My biggest use of data tends to be watching YouTube, especially when watching reviews recently. Skype can be quite greedy too, even when just using voice. I know of others who have been caught out by YouTube too. Fortunately I currently have unlimited data on Three...

As standard, on an iPhone running the latest iOS, each App is shown with it's data use under "Settings\Cellular\" You can turn off cellular data for Apps that don't need it, such as games and "off line" mapping Apps. One free off line mapping App with street level maps for many places is "maps.me".

Both our Three accounts have data roaming turned off in the network to avoid bill shock when international roaming. We visit relatives in Spain several times each year and use their WiFi for email and to listen to UK local radio...

bagginslover

Most networks have optional 'bolt-ons' that can be added at any time to contracts. So even when locked in, you can add them, and whilst paying more, its still a lot less than paying the charges for exceeding your limit.


I don't use data outside of wifi areas, if I HAVE to (not sure why I would....) I wouldn't stream video, or view picture heavy sites.

Marauder999

I have 3G Watchdog (but I dare say there will be a few similar apps out there) installed which monitors usage. You can set monthly usage limits and will warn you when you are reaching these.

tgroom57

I blame twitter. Until recently twitter was mostly just 140 characters. Now includes loads of pictures that'll eat your data allowance. If you can live without it, turn twitter off.
Also watch out for your photos being backed up in the background.
'A picture is worth a thousand words' < exactly.

Senseicads

I use Three who provide me with all you can eat data. This really is the only way forward. Paying per Mb is just a way of gouging the customers from as much money as possible. It only costs me £25 a month and this includes some minutes and texts too.

indesisiv

Senseicads wrote: »

I use Three who provide me with all you can eat data. This really is the only way forward. Paying per Mb is just a way of gouging the customers from as much money as possible. It only costs me £25 a month and this includes some minutes and texts too.

Not strictly true. I pay £12.50 per month and have never been above my 2 gig data limit, my 600 mins or 5000 texts.
Why would I need to pay £25 a month?

MDonovan

As stated, ensure you only update apps over wifi and check you only backup photos over wifi. Otherwise, if you do not need "always on" data outside of wifi, then turn mobile data connection OFF. On all smartphones it is now easy to switch it back on when you need it using a shortcut in your notifications area (Android, Windows, etc.).

When abroad, make sure Data Roaming is OFF unless you are sure you have some good deal like Three's "feel at home" or an international add-on. If in doubt, turn it off...

Try and hook up to a free wifi (UK or abroad) and do your surfing on there. Only use mobile data when absolutely necessary.

ospre

My tablet comes with a 1GB inclusive data allowance which is more than I use for it and it rolls over from month to month :-), however the phone only has 500MB monthly allowance, so when I am taking both devices out with me I turn the tablet into a mobile hotspot and get the phone to latch onto the WiFi signal from the tablet. This way the tablets data is used and not the phones.


Won't suit everyone's circumstances but works for me!

lean&mean

MDonovan wrote: »

As stated, ensure you only update apps over wifi and check you only backup photos over wifi. Otherwise, if you do not need "always on" data outside of wifi, then turn mobile data connection OFF. On all smartphones it is now easy to switch it back on when you need it using a shortcut in your notifications area (Android, Windows, etc.).

When abroad, make sure Data Roaming is OFF unless you are sure you have some good deal like Three's "feel at home" or an international add-on. If in doubt, turn it off...

Try and hook up to a free wifi (UK or abroad) and do your surfing on there. Only use mobile data when absolutely necessary.

All good tips.
In addition, on iPhones you can install (over wifi) a free app called Onavo Extend which compresses your data when browsing or downloading mail. I've found it works well. So if you must use 3g or 4g data, you could save 30-40% off your data usage. The app allows you to decide how much you compress images (how much quality you want) and also tracks how much data you've saved, so after a while you'll get to see how useful it is. It won't compress video or app downloads, so use the advice above. It automatically turns off if you're using wifi.