How To Save Data While Playing Pokémon GO

How To Save Data While Playing Pokémon GO

Pokémon GO requires a Wi-Fi connection or mobile data to play. The data can add up quickly and not all of us have unlimited data plans, so here are ways to save as much of your precious data as possible to catch ’em all.

Image by RecreationalPokemon.

Data usage depends on what you’re doing, how long you’re playing, and if you let the app run in the background. According to Pokémon GO Database, the data usage for playing the game can range between 2MB to over 8MB an hour. One Reddit user mentioned that he’s used approximately 87MB of data to get to about level 8 and catch over 500 Pokémon and that’s in the first week and a half of play.

The first thing you can do to limit data usage is restrict playing Pokémon GO to places where there’s wi-fi. But part of the fun is exploring new places and finding new Pokémon, so try these other helpful tips:

  • Keep those automatic app updates in check: Some app updates are downloaded automatically, using up your mobile data. To undo this setting, turn off “Wi-fi assist” in your iPhone’s Settings. For Android, choose “Update Apps automatically only through Wi-Fi.”
  • Browse mobile-optimised sites: Mobile-friendly sites load faster and won’t require as much data. A browser like Opera Mini saves you data and lets you browse with faster speeds. Alternatively, Chrome extension Chrome Data Saver does something similar for Google Chrome browsers.
  • Reduce data usage by other apps: Many other apps will run in the background and use up data, but thankfully, you can control which ones will. For iOS, go to your Settings, choose Cellular and tick off the Apps that you don’t want to be draining your data. On Android phones, you’ll find this under “Wireless & connections” or “Connections”.
  • Open Pokémon GO only when you need to: The more you leave the app open, the more data is used. One thing you can do is to only open Pokémon GO when you’re in a new area, check for Pokémon, catch it and then turn it back off.

The article suggests also reducing your time spent on social media and streaming apps like Spotify and managing your Pokémon and doing other Pokémon GO-related activities only when you have Wi-Fi. If you’re really concerned about your data going over, you can check out our guide on how to set limits on your phone.

10 Best Ways to Reduce Data Usage [Pokémon GO Database]


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