Low Data Mode on iPhone: What It Does and How to Use It
Short answer: Low Data Mode makes your iPhone and apps use less data by pausing background activity. For cellular, go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Mode. For Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Wi-Fi > (i) and switch on Low Data Mode. It is set separately for each connection.
What Low Data Mode does
It tells iOS and your apps to save data. Typical effects:
- Automatic updates and background tasks pause, such as app updates and background app refresh.
- Photo syncing and other cloud updates pause or slow down.
- Some apps reduce quality, for example lower video resolution or no autoplay.
It does not slow your connection. Speed stays the same, and the iPhone just asks apps to use less. How much each app saves is up to the app.
How to turn it on for cellular
- Open Settings > Cellular.
- Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Tap Data Mode and choose Low Data Mode.
On recent versions of iOS, Data Mode offers a few choices, such as Standard, Low Data Mode, and on some iPhones and plans an option to allow more data on 5G. If you have two SIMs, set it separately for each. Menu names vary by version and carrier.
How to turn it on for a Wi-Fi network
- Open Settings > Wi-Fi and tap the (i) next to the network.
- Switch on Low Data Mode.
It only applies to that network. This is useful on a metered connection such as a personal hotspot or a hotel network with a data cap.
When it is worth using
- You have a limited data plan and want it to last.
- You are travelling or roaming and want to avoid surprise usage.
- You are on a slow or capped Wi-Fi network.
- You are sharing your connection and want to limit background use.
When to turn it off
Low Data Mode is easy to forget about, and it can explain a few odd problems:
- Apps are not updating or notifications are slow.
- Photos are not syncing or backups are not running.
- Video looks low quality in some apps.
- Downloads or app refreshes seem stuck on a particular Wi-Fi network.
Check Settings > Wi-Fi > (i) and the cellular Data Mode first. If the connection itself is the problem, see how to fix Wi-Fi that keeps disconnecting.
Low Data Mode vs Low Power Mode
| Low Data Mode | Low Power Mode | |
|---|---|---|
| Saves | Data | Battery |
| Where | Cellular settings, or Wi-Fi (i) screen | Settings > Battery |
| Scope | Per connection | The whole iPhone |
Check your usage and speed
- Data used: see Settings > Cellular for usage by app.
- Speed: run an iPhone speed test. Low Data Mode should not change the result.
Common questions
Does Low Data Mode stop all data use?
No. Apps you actively use still work normally. It reduces automatic and background use.
Will my calls and messages still work?
Yes. It does not block calls, messages or the apps you are using.
Does it also apply to Personal Hotspot?
The setting is per connection on your iPhone. If you share your connection, devices that connect may behave differently, so check the settings on those devices too.