This is how you use data saving mode on your iPhone

Data saver mode on iPhone

If you’ve enabled data saver mode, your iPhone will make apps use fewer MBs. They only use data if it is strictly necessary to use the app. Also, apps will no longer be updated in the background. This is ideal if your mobile bundle is small or if your data limit is almost reached. You can turn on the data saving mode separately for mobile data, but you can also set it for WiFi networks.

• Mobile data
• Wi-Fi networks
• Turn off mobile data completely for apps

Enable data saver mode for mobile data

Most people will want to be more economical with their mobile data instead of Wi-Fi networks. To reduce your data usage over your mobile network, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Mobile network.
3. Tap Mobile data options.
4. Choose Data mode and select Data saver mode.

The iPhone does the rest. It is not possible to use this mode only for specific apps. So it’s all or nothing. You could, however, completely disable the use of mobile data for specific apps if you notice that they use too much data.

If you use a dual SIM, you will find this option under the relevant mobile subscription.

Enable data saver mode for Wi-Fi networks

Do you have a mediocre WiFi connection or do you have to stick to a limit? Then it can also come in handy to use data saving mode on WiFi. Fortunately, you can turn this on and off specifically for each network. For example, if you’re in a hotel or plane, this feature might help you stay contained. This is how you set it up:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Wi-Fi.
3. Connect to the Wi-Fi network in question if you haven’t already done so.
4. Tap the i button to the right of the network name.
5. Enable data saver mode.

Like data saver mode for a mobile network, it’s unfortunately not possible to use this feature only for specific apps that use a lot of data.

Are you using iOS 16, iPadOS 16 or newer? Then you do not necessarily have to connect to a network first to adjust this setting. You must have been connected in the past. In the list of Wi-Fi networks, tap Edit at the top right. Now you will see a list of Wi-Fi networks that you have used before. Here you can tap the i-button and save data.

Data saver mode is also activated automatically when using the Personal Hotspot. You can disable this by going to Settings > WiFi on the device you need the internet connection on (for example an iPad) and then tapping the i behind the iPhone you are connecting to. There you can then disable the Data Saver mode.

Turn off mobile data completely for apps

Do you want to prevent an app from using mobile data at all costs? That is also possible. It can be useful with small holiday bundles abroad or low limits in hotels and planes. To set this up per app, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Mobile network.
3. Scroll down and turn off data per desired app.

Please note that the app does not use any mobile data at all, so not even if you are actively using the app. The app will work completely normally over WiFi.

Did you know that you can also call with your mobile number via WiFi? This comes in handy if your mobile coverage is poor. In a separate tip, we explain how to make calls via WiFi.