Secret Codes guide
Low Data Mode on iPhone: How It Works
By Muhammad Shahid · · 3 min read
Quick answer
Cut background data use on a metered plan. Low Data Mode pauses automatic updates and background tasks, lowers video and FaceTime quality, and stops iCloud Photos syncing over cellular. It can be set separately for cellular and for individual Wi-Fi networks.
Secret CodesDial codes, SIM & network test · Free on the App StoreDownload free →| What it does | Cut background data use on a metered plan. |
|---|---|
| Published for | any iPhone |
| Type | iOS setting |
Cut background data use on a metered plan. This page explains what it does, how to use it on an iPhone and which carriers it applies to.
I build Secret Codes: IMEI & Carrier, a free iPhone app with 317 checked codes and guides, including this one. If you would rather tap than memorise, get Secret Codes on the App Store.
What is Low Data Mode?
Low Data Mode pauses automatic updates and background tasks, lowers video and FaceTime quality, and stops iCloud Photos syncing over cellular. It can be set separately for cellular and for individual Wi-Fi networks.
How do I do it?
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options.
- Tap Data Mode.
- Choose Low Data Mode.
Which carriers does this apply to?
| Published for | any iPhone |
|---|---|
| Type | iOS setting |
| Good to know | Available on every iPhone running iOS 13 or later. |
Related network and signal
- Review Cellular Data Usage
- Data Roaming
- Reset Network Settings
- Personal Hotspot
- Check For A Carrier Settings Update
- Force A Network Re-Registration
See all network and signal or every category of iPhone codes.
How Secret Codes helps
Secret Codes keeps this and every other entry a search away. Pick your carrier once and each entry says whether it is published for your line. You can save favourites, add a private note, and record whether a code worked on your line.
Frequently asked questions
What is Low Data Mode on iPhone?
Cut background data use on a metered plan. Low Data Mode pauses automatic updates and background tasks, lowers video and FaceTime quality, and stops iCloud Photos syncing over cellular. It can be set separately for cellular and for individual Wi-Fi networks.
What are the steps for Low Data Mode?
1. Open the Settings app. 2. Tap Cellular, then Cellular Data Options. 3. Tap Data Mode. 4. Choose Low Data Mode.
Where do I find Low Data Mode?
In the Settings app on your iPhone.
Is there a dial code for Low Data Mode?
No. On iPhone this is not a dial code, so you use the steps on this page instead.
Which carriers does Low Data Mode work on?
It is published for any iPhone. Available on every iPhone running iOS 13 or later.
Does Low Data Mode work on Android phones too?
These steps are for iPhone. Android phones have their own menus.
Will Low Data Mode work outside the US?
The iPhone steps stay the same, although some features depend on your carrier and region.
What if Low Data Mode 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 Low Data Mode?
Review Cellular Data Usage. See exactly which apps are consuming your data.
What else is in this category?
Data Roaming. Control data use on partner and foreign networks.
Can I find Low Data Mode in an app?
Yes. Secret Codes, a free iPhone app, includes it with its steps and carrier details.
Can I save Low Data Mode for later?
Yes. In Secret Codes you can save it to your favourites and add a private note, which stays on your iPhone.
Sources
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