Apple warns which common ‘data setting’ is draining your battery life and the three better options to use instead
Stuffing bulky portable chargers into a bag and panic-switching to airplane mode when things are really bad are all common scenarios for Apple users.
iPhones (and most other similar gadgets) use lithium ion batteries, which degrade over time.
So if you've had your device for a while, chances are you need this hack in your life even more.
But Apple have revealed simple data settings that could be draining your battery life on the low...
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In short, it all comes down to that pesky 5G. However, there are three settings you can play around with to lengthen your battery life.
Data Options
First up, amending which apps use data and when. Switch off any apps that you aren't too bothered about refreshing in the background, and keep on those that you know you get most use out of.
You can find this setting in Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options or Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options and amending which apps you want to use 5G.
If you're using a Dual SIM, head to Settings > Mobile Data or Settings > Cellular.
Voice & Data
The next setting to look out for is in the Voice & Data section of your Settings.
In here you'll have three options — 5G Auto, 5G On and LTE. 5G On is the one to watch if you want to save that battery.
5G Auto: this setting enables Smart Data mode. When 5G isn't providing you with a better experience, your phone will automatically switch to LTE.
5G On: the battery drainer to watch out for — it means your phone will always use 5G whenever it's available, regardless of the quality of the service.
LTE: exclusively uses the LTE network, even when 5G is available.
Data Mode
The final setting you might not realize is affecting battery life is Data Mode which provides three levels of data usage. The lower your usage, the more battery you're likely to save.
Allow More Data on 5G: for those who want the enhanced experience and don't mind sacrificing some battery life for it. This setting automatically switches from Wi-Fi to 5G when Wi-Fi is sluggish or insecure. It also allows your apps to use more mobile data to provide a better experience like enhanced video quality. Depending on your data plan, this could be your default setting.
Standard: generally the default setting, Standard allows for automatic updates and background refreshes to take place while using standard quality settings for things like FaceTime.
Low Data Mode: for those who want to avoid using too much data and conserve battery life. This setting reduces usage by pausing automatic updates and background tasks.
Can't see 5G on your phone?
Apple recommends three things. Check that your network and mobile plan supports 5G, ensure that you're in an area that supports 5G (your network should be able to confirm this for you) and check within your Mobile Data settings that you have 5G capability on your device.
If you're certain that you should have access to 5G, turn your phone on Airplane Mode, then switch it back off. If you still don't have 5G, contact your network.
One Reddit user who recently switched to Low Data Mode said "I didn't know about how much this option increased my battery life, I'm really happy that I found it" while another replied "Yep, background app refresh is huge factor for battery life. Rarely see it mentioned and it's turned on by default and all apps are on by default.".