Since IBM released the first smartphone in 1994, cell phones have come a long way. At the time, receiving emails was considered revolutionary. 30 years later, smartphones can go online virtually anywhere with mobile data – and do much more than open emails. So let’s talk about data. Specifically, what eats data on a cellphone and how to save data. 

What is mobile data?

Also known as cellular data, mobile data is the wireless communication service that allows your phone to connect to the internet without a Wi-Fi network. Any activity using the internet to send and receive information uses mobile data. Every time you RSVP to an e-vite, reply with a GIF and like a post, you are using mobile data. Here’s what uses data on a cell phone at-a-glance:

chart of items that use mobile phone data: web surfing, email, social media, streaming music, streaming video, video chatting, gaming, and uploading photos

How does mobile data work?

Mobile data plays a vital role in our lives. But to better understand how to save data it’s important to know how mobile data works. Mobile data is measured in bytes, the most basic unit of digital storage and computing processing measurement. A megabyte (MB) is made of one million bytes and a gigabyte (GB) is composed of one billion! GBs are the standard unit of measurement for all cell service providers. Your plan amount determines how much mobile data you have available for internet activities, like the ones above.  

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and mobile data?

Of course, mobile data isn’t the only way you can access the internet. Your phone will always prioritize a Wi-Fi network over mobile data. That’s because a Wi-Fi network has an established internet connection through your router. So long as you stay within range, you can use the internet without dipping into your mobile data plan. You can also send texts and make calls on Wi-Fi – for more on that, check our What is Wi-Fi Calling article. Conversely, mobile data connects to the internet through the nearest cellular tower. This means you can use the internet from wherever you are, not bound by a router.  

Should mobile data be on or off?

The advantage of turning on mobile data is that you can use the internet anywhere. But if you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why am I using so much data?,” you know this convenience comes at a cost. Apps are constantly idling when not in use, using data to send alerts and install updates. To avoid unexpected overages, turn off mobile data when connected to Wi-Fi. Your apps will continue to install updates and send notifications. 

instructions on how to turn off cellular data on both iphone and android

How to turn off cellular data

If your goal is to save data, the answer is simple! Turn off mobile data when you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Idling apps are constantly updating in the background. Once you switch to Wi-Fi, these apps will continue running without using your data. Follow these steps to turn off mobile data on your iPhone or Android:

How to turn off mobile data on iPhone

  • Open the Settings App 
  • Tap Cellular
  • Select Cellular Data and toggle the slider to off 

How to turn off mobile data on Android

  • Swipe down from the top of the home screen to get to the control panel 
  • Tap Data Usage
  • Swipe to Off 

How much data do I need?

No matter the amount, your wireless plan should never keep you from connecting to your loved ones. Everyone’s data needs are different, and knowing your actual data usage and where it goes is important. You may be overpaying for data you don’t need. At Ultra Mobile, we make it easy to quickly add data and even change your plan entirely. For more data-saving tips and instructions on checking your usage on iPhone and Android, read our article How Much Data Do I Need. 

How to use less data with a hand holding an iphone that showcases an amount of GB on the phone

How to use less data

You can start to save data right now! Below is a list of easy data-conserving practices you can implement today that will help you save big in the long run:

  • Monitor your data app usage 
  • Switch to Wi-Fi if possible when using data-heavy apps
  • Disable background app refresh
  • Use low data mode on iPhone
  • Use Data Saver on Android 

So to Recap…

Smartphones use mobile data to connect to the internet. Data is measured in bytes, and all carriers use gigabytes as a standard unit of measurement for their plans. Apps constantly idle in the background and use up mobile data, but you can avoid unexpected overages by turning off mobile data when you’re connected to Wi-Fi.

Now that you’re a data expert, see if Ultra Mobile plans are right for you! All plans include Free Wi-Fi Calling to help you save on your mobile data and more Ultra-features to help you connect confidently and save abundantly.

Shop Plans