How to reduce data usage on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To reduce data usage on Android, you can adjust settings, restrict background data, and utilize data-saving features available in your device. These methods help manage how apps use data and can significantly lower your monthly data consumption.

Beginner/Intermediate⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start reducing data usage on your Android device, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running version 6.0 (Marshmallow) or higher.
  • •Access to device settings and permissions to modify network settings.
  • •Wi-Fi connection for downloading updates or apps if needed.
  • •Backup important data if you plan to uninstall apps or reset settings.

Method 1: Using Data Saver Mode

Data Saver mode is a built-in feature that restricts background data usage for apps. This method is useful for users who want to limit data consumption without manually adjusting settings for each app.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your Android device. You can find it in your app drawer or by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Network & internet' or 'Connections' depending on your device.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Data usage' and then select 'Data Saver'.
  • •Step 4: Toggle the 'Use Data Saver' switch to ON. You should see a confirmation message indicating that Data Saver is active.
  • •Step 5: To allow specific apps to use data in the background, tap on 'Unrestricted data access' and select the apps you want to exempt from Data Saver restrictions.
  • •Step 6: Verify that Data Saver is working by monitoring your data usage in the 'Data usage' section. You should see a decrease in data consumption.
  • •Step 7: If Data Saver does not seem to work, ensure that you have allowed necessary apps unrestricted access.

For Android 11 and above

Android 11 introduced enhanced Data Saver features, allowing more granular control over background data.
  • •Step 1: Follow the same steps as above to access Data Saver settings.
  • •Step 2: In addition to unrestricted access, you can now set individual app data limits by tapping on the app and adjusting its data usage settings.

For Android 10 and below

Older versions may have limited features in Data Saver mode.
  • •Step 1: Access Data Saver settings as described above.
  • •Step 2: Note that some apps may not have the option for unrestricted access, and you may need to manage them manually.

Method 2: Restrict Background Data for Specific Apps

This method allows you to manually restrict background data for individual apps, which is useful for apps that consume a lot of data.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your Android device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Apps & notifications' or 'Apps'.
  • •Step 3: Select the app you want to restrict (e.g., Facebook, Instagram).
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Mobile data & Wi-Fi'.
  • •Step 5: Toggle the 'Background data' switch to OFF. This will prevent the app from using data in the background.
  • •Step 6: Verify the change by checking the app's data usage in the 'Data usage' section.
  • •Step 7: If the app continues to use data, consider uninstalling it or checking for updates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to reduce data usage, here are some common problems and their solutions:
  • •Error: 'Data Saver not working' - Solution: Ensure that Data Saver is enabled and that you have allowed necessary apps unrestricted access.
  • •Issue: 'Background data still high' - Fix: Check individual app settings to ensure background data is restricted.
  • •Problem: 'Apps not updating' - Workaround: Temporarily disable Data Saver or allow specific apps unrestricted access to update.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips to further reduce data usage:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: No specific shortcuts available, but using quick settings (swipe down) can quickly toggle Data Saver.
  • •Command line: N/A - Android does not support command line for data settings.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Wi-Fi only' settings in apps like Google Play Store to download updates only when connected to Wi-Fi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To effectively manage data usage, regularly review app data consumption and adjust settings accordingly.