I enabled Data Saver mode on my Android phone to avoid overcharges – and it’s a big relief
I enabled Data Saver mode on my Android phone to avoid overcharges – and it’s a big relief
https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-enable-android-data-saver-mode-and-why/
Publish Date: 2026-05-02 21:00:00
Source Domain: www.zdnet.com
Jack Wallen / ZDNET
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- If you have limited mobile data, pay attention.
- This feature could save you money.
- You control whether apps can use data in the background.
For some people, the idea of saving and controlling data usage on a phone isn’t really an issue. If you don’t happen to have an unlimited data plan, it’s a different story. I’ve been in situations before when my phone warns me that I’ve exceeded 2GB of data (I can’t remember how much data my plan gives me). When that happens, I tend to put the brakes on.
When those instances happen, I’m glad Android makes it easy for me to take control of data use. In conjunction with stopping Android apps from running in the background, you’ll have more control than you ever thought you could enjoy.
Also: How to easily encrypt your files on an Android phone – for free
If that sounds like something you could use, read on, and I’ll show you how easy it is.
How to use Data Saver mode on Android
The first thing you’ll want to do is enable the Data Saver mode, which prevents some apps from sending and/or receiving data in the background. What does that mean? For instance, if Data Saver is enabled and you visit a website in your browser, images won’t load until you tap them. Additionally, videos and audio will not play automatically.
Here’s how you enable the Data Saver feature.
Open the Settings app by either pulling down the Notification Shade twice and then tapping the gear icon at the bottom right. Another option is to open the App Drawer, search for the Settings launcher, and tap it.
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Also: How I share audio from my Android phone to multiple earbuds (and why it’s a big deal)
From within the Settings app, go to “Network & internet.” On that page, locate and tap Data Saver. Note: On some Android phones, the feature is found in Settings “Mobile network.”
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Always remember to turn Data Saver off…
