iPhone (iOS) · Network & Internet
Reduce Background Data Usage on Wi-Fi or Cellular
Low Data Mode reduces background app refresh, automatic downloads, and streaming quality on a chosen Wi-Fi or cellular network, helping conserve data on metered or limited connections.
How to open Low Data Mode
- Open Settings → Wi-Fi → tap the (i) next to a network, then toggle Low Data Mode
- For cellular, open Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → toggle Low Data Mode
- Connect to the network to confirm reduced background activity
- Disable it for networks where full performance is preferred
What you should know
- Configured separately for each Wi-Fi network and for cellular data
- Pauses automatic updates, iCloud Photos backups, and background app refresh on the affected network
- Streaming apps may lower default video/audio quality automatically
- Doesn't block manual downloads or active app use, only background activity
Why it matters
Low Data Mode is especially useful for people on capped mobile hotspots, international roaming, or slow/expensive Wi-Fi networks like those found in some hotels or rural areas, where background syncing can silently consume a meaningful chunk of a limited data allowance. Because it's set per network rather than globally, a home Wi-Fi network can stay unrestricted while a mobile hotspot or roaming connection is protected, avoiding the need to remember to toggle it manually every time you change networks.
Best practices
- Enable it specifically for metered hotspot or guest Wi-Fi networks rather than your home network
- Turn it on for cellular data while traveling internationally to control roaming costs
- Expect streaming quality to drop automatically—manually raise it if quality matters more than data savings
- Review which background tasks you're comfortable pausing (like Photos backup) before relying on it long-term
Common problems and fixes
- Photos aren't backing up to iCloud
- Check whether Low Data Mode is enabled on the current network, which pauses iCloud Photos sync
- Streaming video looks lower quality than usual
- This is expected behavior; disable Low Data Mode for that network if quality is a priority
- Setting doesn't seem to apply
- Confirm it was enabled for the specific network currently connected, since it's set per network, not globally
Tips and tricks
- Combine with Personal Hotspot's Maximize Compatibility off setting for the best data efficiency when tethering
- Check individual app settings for additional data-saving options like reduced streaming quality
Frequently asked questions
Does Low Data Mode block all downloads?
No, it limits background and automatic downloads while still allowing manual downloads and active app use.
Can I set it for cellular and Wi-Fi differently?
Yes, cellular Low Data Mode is configured separately from each individual Wi-Fi network's setting.
Will it affect call quality?
It shouldn't meaningfully affect voice calls, which use relatively little data.
Related settings
- CellularCellular settings control your mobile data connection, including which apps can use cellular data, whether 5G or data roaming is allowed, and how much of your monthly plan each app has consumed.
- Wi-Fi ConnectionWi-Fi settings let you join nearby networks, share passwords instantly between Apple devices, and manage previously joined networks.
- Personal HotspotPersonal Hotspot turns your iPhone's cellular data connection into a temporary Wi-Fi, USB, or Bluetooth network that other devices like a laptop, tablet, or another phone can join for internet access.
More Network & Internet guides for iPhone (iOS)
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- AirDropAirDrop lets you instantly send photos, documents, links, and more to nearby iPhones, iPads, and Macs using a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, without needing the same network or an internet connection.
- Airplane ModeAirplane Mode turns off cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth radios with one toggle, and can be configured to leave Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on individually after enabling, for use during flights or to save battery.
- Wi-Fi CallingWi-Fi Calling routes phone calls and texts through a connected Wi-Fi network when cellular coverage is weak or unavailable, and can register your number so other Apple devices signed into the same account can also make calls.
- iCloud Private RelayiCloud Private Relay encrypts Safari's outgoing traffic and routes it through two separate relays so no single party—including Apple or your network provider—can see both your identity and the websites you visit.