If your mobile data disappears faster than your morning coffee, Apple’s Low Data Mode might be the fix you need. But does it actually work, and should you enable it? Let’s break it down—plus, get additional expert tips on how to save mobile data on an iPhone without losing essential features.
What Is Low Data Mode?
Low Data Mode is an iPhone feature introduced in iOS 13 that reduces mobile data usage by limiting background activity. When enabled, your iPhone stops apps from refreshing in the background, downloading updates, and syncing non-essential data—helping you stay within your plan’s limits.
Think of it like a power-saving mode, but for your data.
How Does Low Data Mode Work?
When you enable Low Data Mode, Apple automatically adjusts several system settings to reduce unnecessary data consumption:
- Stops Background App Refresh – Apps won’t update in the background until you open them.
- Pauses Automatic Updates & Downloads – No more surprise app updates using up your data.
- Lowers Streaming Quality – Video and music streaming services switch to lower quality.
- Delays iCloud Syncing – Backups, photo syncing, and document updates are postponed.
- Reduces FaceTime Quality – Video calls might look slightly pixelated to conserve bandwidth.
- Limits Push Notifications – Apps requiring real-time updates may experience delays.
Important: Low Data Mode affects both Wi-Fi and cellular data if enabled for a specific Wi-Fi network.
How to Enable Low Data Mode on iPhone
For Cellular Data:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Select Cellular Data Options.
- Toggle on Low Data Mode.
For Wi-Fi Networks:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Wi-Fi.
- Select your Wi-Fi network.
- Toggle on Low Data Mode.
Should You Enable Low Data Mode?
This depends on your iPhone usage habits. Here’s a quick decision guide:
Turn It On If:
- You have a limited data plan – Avoid overages and slowdowns.
- You travel frequently – Prevents expensive roaming charges.
- You want better battery life – Less background activity means longer battery life.
- You use a hotspot often – Prevents data-hungry apps from draining your connection.
Skip It If:
- You need instant notifications – Email, messaging, and real-time apps may be delayed.
- You stream in HD/4K – Quality will drop automatically.
- You prefer automatic updates – You’ll need to check and update apps manually.
Best practice: Enable it when needed, and turn it off when you want full functionality.
More Ways to Save Mobile Data on an iPhone
If you want to reduce data usage without losing important features, try these additional data-saving tips:
1. Restrict Data Usage for Specific Apps
Not all apps need access to your mobile data 24/7. To control which apps can use cellular data:
- Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Scroll down to see a list of apps using mobile data.
- Toggle off any app you don’t need to use on mobile data.
Pro Tip: Disable data for apps like YouTube, Netflix, or App Store to prevent accidental overages.
2. Use Wi-Fi Assist (With Caution!)
Wi-Fi Assist automatically switches to cellular data when your Wi-Fi connection is weak. While useful, it can secretly burn through your data plan.
- To turn it off, go to Settings > Cellular and scroll down to Wi-Fi Assist.
- Toggle it off if you’re worried about excess data usage.
3. Disable Auto-Play for Videos on Social Media
Social media apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter automatically play videos as you scroll—eating up mobile data fast.
- Open the app’s settings and look for Auto-Play options.
- Set it to Wi-Fi Only or Off.
4. Optimize Streaming Apps for Low Data Use
Most streaming services have data-saving settings. Enable them in apps like:
- YouTube: Go to Settings > Data Saving Mode.
- Netflix: Set video quality to Low or Auto in Playback Settings.
- Spotify/Apple Music: Set streaming quality to Normal or Low.
5. Turn Off Background App Refresh for Non-Essential Apps
- Open Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
- Choose Wi-Fi Only or Off for apps that don’t need background data.
Best practice: Keep it on for essential apps like messaging and navigation but disable it for social media and shopping apps.
FAQ
Will Low Data Mode Affect Wi-Fi?
Yes, if enabled for a Wi-Fi network, it will reduce background usage and limit syncing activities.
Will I Still Receive Notifications?
Yes, but some notifications may be delayed, especially those requiring background refresh.
Does It Help Battery Life?
Yes, indirectly. Less background activity = less battery drain.
Can I Enable It for Certain Apps Only?
No, Low Data Mode applies system-wide. However, you can disable mobile data for specific apps in Settings.
How Do I Check If It’s Enabled?
Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options—if it’s on, it will say “Low Data Mode Enabled.”
Is Low Data Mode Worth It?
If you’re on a limited data plan, traveling, or using a hotspot, Low Data Mode is a great tool. But if you need real-time updates, high-quality streaming, or automatic updates, it might feel restrictive.
Try it for a few days—if it saves data without major downsides, keep it on. Otherwise, disable it and adjust your settings manually.
