What is Mobile Data and how can I control my usage?

Whether you’re streaming YouTube or scrolling through social media, you’ll be using data. But what is it, how do we measure it and what do you need to know?

Mobile data is what allows your phone to connect to the internet when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi. You can use it to browse the internet, download music or videos and run apps while you’re on the go. 

Data is measured in kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), and gigabytes (GB). A byte is one unit of data, with 1,024 bytes equaling a kilobyte, 1,024 kilobytes equaling a megabyte, and 1,024 megabytes equaling a gigabyte. Data usage is tracked in KB, with both upstream (sending) and downstream (receiving) data contributing to your total usage.

We use an Online Charging System (OCS) to track how much data you use. When you use Mobile Data on your phone, your device seeks permission from our OCS, starting a data session charged according to your plan. Your data session may stop if you use up your allowance or reach your bill cap.Data charges are based on both upstream and downstream data.Because of this, there may be times when your device uses some data we can’t measure. This means that your device may give a different reading of how much data you’ve used.

The quickest way to view your remaining allowances is in the iD Mobile app or on my.idmobile.co.uk. Here, you can view your remaining allowances for Data, Minutes and Texts. Alternatively, you can call our automated telephone service (7777 from your iD Mobile SIM or 0333 003 7777 from any other phone). Check out the Community article below for more helpful information:

• How do I view my remaining allowances? F.A.Q.

Sometimes you can use more data in a month than you expect to, which can leave you with an unwanted bill. Here’s a few ways you can control your Mobile Data usage:

1. Enabling ‘Low Data Mode’.

Using ‘Low Data Mode’ can help reduce your data usage by limiting background activity and automatic updates. Here’s how to enable it on different phones:

iPhone:

Samsung Galaxy:

Most other Android phones:

2. Use streaming services offline.

You don’t need Mobile Data to enjoy your favourite shows and music. Apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Spotify, and Apple Music let you download content to watch or listen to later. Just connect to WiFi, find what you want, and download it. Visit their websites to learn more about offline mode.

3. Set a Bill Cap.

Bill Capping is a money-saving feature on all iD Mobile plans. It lets you limit your monthly spend to an amount that works for you. Simply set your Bill Cap in the iD Mobile app to limit additional charges, and we won't charge you more than the amount you set as your Bill Cap. Check out the Community article below for more helpful information:

• How do I set or change my Bill Cap? F.A.Q.

Some websites and services arefree-rated, meaning you can use them without being charged for data (unless you're using a VPN). These include: