What is Data on a Cell Phone?

Cell phone data is what you use to connect to the internet when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi. It relates to the information that will be sent and received across the network when you use the internet. Your phone package will include an amount of cell phone data. If you’re confused by what exactly is included, read on to find out and to see how you can track and reduce your data usage.

How is cell phone data measured?

Cell phone data is measured in megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB). There are 1,000 MB in 1 GB. Your data package from your network provider will usually give you a certain number of GB to use every month or billing period.

What uses data on a cell phone?

Any app that requires a connection to the internet will use data when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi. This includes browsing the internet, using social media, online shopping, streaming music, streaming video, and using e-mail and online messaging apps.

Below are some examples of common apps that use data, and how much data they can use:

How much data do I need?

How much data you need will depend on how much you use your phone. Typically, 1-5GB of data will suffice for those that don’t use their phone too often, or for those who mainly use their phone when they’re connected to Wi-Fi. This will provide enough data to check e-mails or browse social media for about an hour each day.

People that want to use their phone for longer each day or have a heavier usage – for example, they want to play games online during their lunch break – will need more data. 6-10GB would suit someone who needs to be able to access the internet for their phone more.

Some providers offer unlimited data. This will suit those who don’t want a limit on how much they use their phone. It may be that you use it often where there is no Wi-Fi, and/or you routinely download movies and music and like to stream at HD.

How can I see how much data I’m using on my phone?

The best way of judging how much data you need is to check how much data you currently use. Most smartphones will show how much data you have used in the current period. For iPhones, you can view your data usage under ‘Settings’ and then ‘Mobile Data’. Android users can find their data usage under ‘Settings’ and ‘Data’ or ‘Data Usage’.

You can also often view how much data you have used from the provider. You may have an online account or app on your phone that lets you view your data account, which will show you how much data is included in your agreement and how much you have used.

How can I reduce data usage on my phone?

For both Apple and Android phones, you can sometimes control your data usage from the menu that shows how much data you have used. You may be able to prevent apps from using data when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi and you can sometimes switch to a ‘low data’ or ‘data saving’ mode, which stops apps from using data when you’re not actually using them.

This menu will also often show you which apps use the most data. This can help you to identify which apps are sapping your data usage and help you to see where you should think about cutting back.

Using Wi-Fi is maybe the best way to reduce your data usage on your cell phone. You should look for trusted, public Wi-Fi spots when you’re out and about, to utilize them instead of your data. Or you can plan ahead to help reduce your data usage. When you’re at home and connected to Wi-Fi you could download music, podcasts, and films to your phone. This way, they’ll be ready for you when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi, and you can watch and listen to them without using any data.

You can often set up alerts with your network provider, to let you know when you have reached a certain amount of data. This can help you to monitor your data usage and avoid using too much and having to pay extra.

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