As mobile data rates change and usage increases drastically, many people in Bangladesh are looking for ways to stay connected without a lot of costs. Whether you are watching videos on YouTube, using Facebook or simply browsing the web, it’s so easy to burn through your data before the end of the month. Thankfully, with some adjustments to your settings and behaviours, your data will last exponentially longer.
1. Turn Off Background App Data
Many apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Instagram and Google Maps) continue to utilise data, even if not being actively used.
To counter this, go to Settings → Data Usage → Background Data and turn it off for those apps you do not actively need.
This one step can save you hundreds of megabytes every week.
2. Use Data Saver Mode
Data Saver or Low Data Mode is an available option on both Android and iPhone. Data Saver mode stops automatic updates, photo syncing and background refreshes.
This is especially useful if you are on a prepaid plan with limited data, and you don’t want to consume all your data in a few days.
3. Downloading rather than Streaming
Streaming videos of high quality or songs can use a huge amount of data. If you know you’ll want to watch or listen to something more than once, instead, download it via Wi-Fi.
Downloading for offline use is supported by apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify. Use that download option wisely.
4. Adjust Social Media Settings
Social media is one of the largest data eaters. Videos on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok often automatically play in the highest quality.
To save data, such as data allowances on a plan:
1. Disable Auto-Play Videos. (You can always turn it back to on in the settings.)
2. Change image quality to Low or Data Saver.
3. Post large videos using Wi-Fi instead of on mobile data.
5. Lite Versions of Apps
When using popular apps like Facebook, Messenger, or Opera, consider using Lite versions. They work to use less data and are often faster, even with slower connections. This option is also advantageous in rural areas of Bangladesh.
6. Track Your Usage Regularly
All telecoms in Bangladesh — Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, and Teletalk — offer USSD codes and mobile apps to check your data balance and usage. Monitoring your mobile data allows you to see where your data goes and adapt your behaviour accordingly.
7. Keep Using Wi-Fi Whenever Available
When you’ve connected to a secure Wi-Fi network, consider disabling mobile data. It especially makes sense when you’re at home, at school, or at the office, as your data pack will go much further.
A Smart User Saves More
Saving mobile data doesn’t require sacrificing your internet usage — it’s about being a smart user of data. By slightly lobbying your usage to make a few other small changes like disabling background data, using Wi-Fi to download content, or utilising the Lite app versions of applications, you can quickly erode expenses from your monthly bill.
In Bangladesh, where mobile internet provides connection to millions daily, investing time to save mobile data smartly is one of the best digital habits to develop and utilise your overall internet experience.
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