MSMuhammad Shahid

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Data Roaming on iPhone: How It Works

By Muhammad Shahid · · 3 min read

Quick answer

Control data use on partner and foreign networks. When Data Roaming is off, your iPhone will not use cellular data on any network other than your carrier's own. Calls and texts still work. Domestic roaming inside the US is usually included in your plan; international roaming often is not.

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Key facts
What it doesControl data use on partner and foreign networks.
Published forany iPhone, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and UScellular
TypeiOS setting

Control data use on partner and foreign networks. This page explains what it does, how to use it on an iPhone and which carriers it applies to.

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What is Data Roaming?

When Data Roaming is off, your iPhone will not use cellular data on any network other than your carrier's own. Calls and texts still work.

Domestic roaming inside the US is usually included in your plan; international roaming often is not.

Important: Leaving roaming on abroad without an international package can generate very large charges. Confirm the rates with your carrier before you travel.

How do I do it?

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options.
  3. Turn Data Roaming on or off.

Which carriers does this apply to?

Published forany iPhone, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and UScellular
TypeiOS setting
Good to knowAvailable on every iPhone. What counts as roaming depends entirely on your plan.
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Frequently asked questions

What is Data Roaming on iPhone?

Control data use on partner and foreign networks. When Data Roaming is off, your iPhone will not use cellular data on any network other than your carrier's own. Calls and texts still work.

What else should I know about Data Roaming?

Domestic roaming inside the US is usually included in your plan; international roaming often is not.

What are the steps for Data Roaming?

1. Open the Settings app. 2. Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options. 3. Turn Data Roaming on or off.

Where do I find Data Roaming?

In the Settings app on your iPhone.

Is there a dial code for Data Roaming?

No. On iPhone this is not a dial code, so you use the steps on this page instead.

Which carriers does Data Roaming work on?

It is published for any iPhone, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and UScellular. Available on every iPhone. What counts as roaming depends entirely on your plan.

Is there anything to watch out for with Data Roaming?

Leaving roaming on abroad without an international package can generate very large charges. Confirm the rates with your carrier before you travel.

Does Data Roaming work on Android phones too?

These steps are for iPhone. Android phones have their own menus.

Will Data Roaming work outside the US?

The iPhone steps stay the same, although some features depend on your carrier and region.

What if Data Roaming does not work on my iPhone?

Check that it applies to your carrier first, because carriers decide which services they offer and can change them. If it should apply to your line, contact your carrier.

What is related to Data Roaming?

Low Data Mode. Cut background data use on a metered plan.

What else is in this category?

Personal Hotspot. Share your cellular connection with other devices.

Sources

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