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How to Limit Data Usage on Android: A Comprehensive Guide

Limiting data usage on your Android device can help you save money and prevent unexpected overages. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the steps to effectively manage your data consumption and set limits on various apps.

Prerequisites

  • An Android smartphone or tablet
  • Up-to-date Google Play Services

1. Check Your Current Data Usage

Before making any changes, it is essential to understand how much data each app is using. To do this:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage.
  2. Here you can see a detailed breakdown of data consumption for the past billing cycle.
  3. You may also tap on an individual app to view more specific details about its data usage.

2. Set Up Data Limit and Warning

You can set up data limits and warnings within the Device Data Usage settings:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage.
  2. Tap on the three dots (top right corner).
  3. Select Set mobile data limit or Set Wi-Fi data limit, depending on your connection type.
  4. Set a desired limit and an optional warning level.
  5. Once set, you'll receive notifications when you reach the specified warning or limit.

3. Restrict Background Data

Background data usage can significantly add to your data consumption without your knowledge. To manage it:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage.
  2. Tap on the three dots (top right corner).
  3. Select Restrict background data.
  4. Here you can choose which apps will be allowed to use data in the background.

4. Adjust App-specific Settings

Individual apps often have their own data usage settings:

  1. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps > [App Name].
  2. Tap on Data usage (or Mobile data usage, depending on the app).
  3. Set the desired data usage limit or restrict background data usage for that specific app.

5. Enable Data Saver Mode

Android comes with a built-in Data Saver mode, which automatically restricts background data usage and optimizes data consumption for all apps:

  1. Go to Settings > Digital wellbeing & parental controls > Data.
  2. Tap on the toggle next to Data saver to enable it.

By implementing these steps, you'll be able to effectively manage your Android device's data usage and save money on your mobile plan.

Published May, 2017