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10 Tech How-To

How to Use Low Data Mode on Your iPhone

Guide 10-22290 · Updated · Step by step

Low Data Mode is a built-in iPhone setting that reduces background data usage, helping you stay within a cellular data cap or reduce congestion on a slow Wi-Fi network. This guide walks you through turning it on for both cellular and Wi-Fi connections, explains what changes, and offers troubleshooting tips.

What You’ll Need

  • An iPhone running iOS 13 or later (the steps are similar on newer versions).
  • Access to the Settings app.
  • For cellular Low Data Mode: a cellular plan with data (the setting works with any carrier).
  • For Wi-Fi Low Data Mode: the Wi-Fi network you want to limit (you may need the network password to rejoin if you forget it).

Step-by-Step

Turn on Low Data Mode for Cellular

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).
  3. Tap Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options).
  4. Tap Data Mode.
  5. Select Low Data Mode. A checkmark appears next to it.
  6. Exit Settings. The change takes effect immediately.

Turn on Low Data Mode for a Wi-Fi Network

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Wi-Fi.
  3. Find the network you are connected to (it has a checkmark) and tap the info (i) icon next to it.
  4. Tap the Low Data Mode toggle to turn it on (green).
  5. Tap Back to save. The setting applies only to that specific Wi-Fi network.

Note: You can enable Low Data Mode for both cellular and Wi-Fi simultaneously. They are independent settings.

Common Mistakes

  • Enabling it only for Wi-Fi when you meant cellular: Many users think one toggle controls everything. Remember, cellular and Wi-Fi have separate switches.
  • Expecting it to block all data: Low Data Mode does not turn off data; it just reduces background usage. Apps you actively use can still download content.
  • Forgetting to turn it off: When your data cap resets or you’re on unlimited Wi-Fi, you may want to disable it to restore full background refresh and automatic downloads.
  • Assuming it works on all apps: Some apps ignore the setting. For example, video streaming apps may still stream in high quality unless you also lower their in-app settings.

Tips

  • Use Low Data Mode when you’re near your monthly data limit to avoid overage charges.
  • Enable it on public or metered Wi-Fi networks (like hotel or airport Wi-Fi) to reduce data usage.
  • Pair Low Data Mode with Background App Refresh off for even more savings.
  • Check your cellular usage in Settings > Cellular to see which apps use the most data, then decide if you need Low Data Mode.
  • If you have a 5G plan, Low Data Mode may also reduce 5G usage, which can help battery life.

Troubleshooting

  • I don’t see “Data Mode” under Cellular Data Options: Make sure your iPhone runs iOS 13 or later. If it does, go to Settings > General > Software Update to install any available updates.
  • Low Data Mode doesn’t seem to reduce data usage: Check that you enabled it for the correct connection (cellular vs. Wi-Fi). Also, some apps (like email) may still fetch manually. Turn off Background App Refresh for extra control.
  • I turned it on for Wi-Fi, but it turned off automatically: iOS may reset Low Data Mode for a Wi-Fi network if you “Forget This Network” or reset network settings. Re-enable it after reconnecting.
  • My iPhone is slow with Low Data Mode on: That’s expected because apps pause automatic updates. If you need faster performance, turn it off temporarily.
  • I can’t find the Wi-Fi info button: The (i) icon appears only when you’re connected to the network. If you’re not connected, join the network first, then tap the icon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Low Data Mode affect phone calls or text messages?

No. Calls and SMS/MMS (text messages) are not affected. It only limits internet data usage.

Will Low Data Mode save battery life?

Often yes, because it reduces background activity, which can lower battery drain. The effect varies by usage.

Can I set Low Data Mode to turn on automatically?

No. There is no built-in schedule. You must toggle it manually, though you can use the Control Center (if you add the Low Data Mode toggle) for quicker access.

Does Low Data Mode work when my iPhone is locked?

Yes. It primarily affects background tasks, which often happen when the phone is locked.

Does Low Data Mode affect app updates?

Yes. App Store automatic downloads and updates are paused until you turn Low Data Mode off.

Will Low Data Mode reduce video streaming quality?

It can, but not always. Many streaming apps (like Netflix or YouTube) have their own quality settings. Low Data Mode may cause them to default to lower quality, but you can also adjust in-app settings.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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