Why Your Data Runs Out Quickly & How to Reduce Usage with Figabytes eSIM

If you feel your Figabytes eSIM data is being used faster than expected, you’re not alone. Modern smartphones and apps consume data in the background without you realizing it.
This guide explains why data drains quickly, how to identify the cause, and the best settings to help you stay in control—especially while traveling.

🚀 Why Data Usage Might Be Higher Than Expected

Several factors can cause rapid data consumption:

1. Background App Activity

Apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, Maps, and Email refresh content even when you’re not using them.

2. Cloud Backups Running in the Background

• iCloud Backup

• Google Photos auto-upload

• WhatsApp media auto-download
  These services constantly send/receive data.

3. Video & Social Media Apps Consume A Lot

Streaming HD video or scrolling through Reels/Shorts burns data quickly.

Example:

• 1 hour of YouTube HD = 1–3 GB

• 1 hour of TikTok/Instagram Reels = 600–900 MB

4. Hotspot/Tethering

Hotspot is one of the fastest ways to use up data. Laptops can consume several GB in minutes.

5. Automatic System Updates

iOS/Android may download:

• App updates

• OS updates

• Security patches

• Web content

6. Poor/Weak Network Signal

A weak signal forces your device to retry connections, resulting in higher data usage.

🧭 How to Reduce Data Usage (Best Practices)

These settings help your Figabytes data last longer, especially on light plans (1–5 GB).

1. Turn Off Background App Refresh

iPhone

Settings → General → Background App Refresh → Off

Android

Settings → Apps → Select App → Mobile Data → Disable background data

2. Disable Cloud Backups While Traveling

iPhone

• iCloud Photos → Off

• iCloud Backup → Off

Android

• Google Photos backup → Off

• WhatsApp auto-download → Settings → Storage → turn off media auto-download

3. Reduce Video Quality

• YouTube: Tap settings → Quality → Data Saver / 480p

• TikTok/Instagram: Enable Data Saver Mode

4. Limit Hotspot Usage

Avoid using hotspot unless necessary.
Even short laptop usage can consume multiple GB.

5. Disable Auto App Updates

iPhone

App Store → Automatic Downloads → Off

Android

Google Play Store → Settings → Auto-update apps → Don’t auto-update

6. Use Offline Maps

Download Google Maps offline for your destination to avoid constant map refreshing.

7. Turn Off Wi-Fi Assist / Adaptive Connectivity

iPhone

Settings → Mobile Data → Wi-Fi Assist OFF

Android

Settings → Network → Adaptive Connectivity → Off

This prevents your phone from switching to mobile data when Wi-Fi signal drops.

📊 How to Monitor Data Usage

iPhone

Settings → Mobile Data → Scroll down to see per-app usage
Reset statistics at the start of your trip.

Android

Settings → Network & Internet → Data Usage → See per-app breakdown

Look for heavy hitters such as:

• TikTok

• Instagram

• YouTube

• Maps

• Cloud services

• Hotspot usage

🌍 Travel Tip: Use Figabytes Smart Plans

If you travel often:

• Choose bigger data plans (10–20 GB)

• Or use regional bundles if hopping across countries

• You can always top up without reinstalling the eSIM

📩 Still Using Data Too Fast?

Send us:

• Your device model

• Screenshot of per-app data usage

• Your order ID

Figabytes Support will help identify the cause and suggest the best plan for your travel style.