How to Turn Off This iOS 9 Feature and Prevent Your Data Usage Skyrocketing
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iOS 9 was released almost two weeks ago, with a ton of new features and under-the-hood improvements. On the whole, the response to the new operating system has been extremely positive. However, some users have reported that since downloading the new operating system, their data usage (and thus their bills from their mobile provider) has skyrocketed.
Why are some customers seeing such a jump in their data usage? Well, the culprit lies in a new feature in iOS 9 called “Wi-Fi Assist”. Wi-Fi assist was designed to ensure that users maintain a solid internet connection for a smooth, lag-free experience on the user’s end.
The feature works by switching the phone to use cellular data when it finds that the user’s Wi-Fi signal is weak. While the feature certainly does, in many cases, eliminate lag and browsing slowdowns when the Wi-Fi signal is less than stellar, it can also eat up a lot of data in a short amount of time.
The biggest problem with the feature? It’s on by default. Some users who are on a limited data plan have been hit with huge charges from their mobile providers as they have unknowingly exceeded their monthly data allotment.
For those who have unlimited data, this is a welcome feature that is sure to speed up your browsing. However, for those of us who are on limited data plans, here’s how to turn the feature off.
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll to the “Cellular” tab.
- Scroll below all of the app data usage to the bottom of the screen.
- Switch off the Wi-Fi Assist feature.
If you’ve experienced a sudden jump in data usage since installing iOS 9, this will likely fix your problem.
