In this guide, we will show you how to check or monitor data usage on Android. Even if you have an unlimited data plan, you can easily burn all your high-speed data by watching HD videos, YouTube or Netflix. We’ll also explain how to set reminders and limits to keep things on track.
No one wants to review their monthly data plan. Carriers will charge you expensive excessive usage charges or slow down your internet, even on an unlimited data plan. Fortunately, Google has placed controls directly on Android so you can manage everything.
Android’s data monitoring tools are all typically in the same spot. Whether you have the latest Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel 2 or something. We’ll start with a how-to video on the Galaxy S8, then share step-by-step instructions from a Google Pixel below.
While carriers claim that the data usage meter on Android devices isn’t entirely accurate, the numbers are usually close enough to make sure you’re not over your limit.
Instructions
There are several different ways to monitor data usage on Android and some carriers like Verizon have dedicated apps for this. However, it is easiest to use the tools built into every phone.
Here you will see all kinds of important information. Your overall data usage is at the top for convenience. Below that is a data saver mode, followed by extra mobile controls. Select to see a breakdown of each app and how much data it’s using. This is a good way to catch any issue or a malfunctioning app. Or you will find that you watch too much YouTube and need to slow down.
It’s worth noting that your monthly billing cycle may not start on the 1st day of the month. If not, tap on it and adjust your settings. This allows you to change the start and end dates to suit your cell phone plan.
How to Set Data Alert and Limits on Android
Next, we’ll show you how to set alerts and limits to avoid overages and charges. If you or a family member continues to exceed the data plan limit, set an alert or even a data usage limit. In the same menu mentioned earlier, follow the steps and pictures below.
Adding a data usage alert is a good way to avoid overcharges. If you have a 5GB monthly data plan, set it to something like 2-3GB. That way, you know when you’re using about half of your plan in a given month and when you need to cut back. Or tap on it and choose something like 4.5GB. This way the phone will automatically turn off data access to keep you from using too much.
On older versions of Android (like Android 5.0 Lollipop), you can pull down the notification bar and tap and hold the AT&T or 4G LTE logo. This instantly takes you to the data screen for a quick view of your data usage.
Now you know how to quickly check your overall data usage on Android. Or set things like reminders, alerts or limits to avoid accidental overage charges. Leave a comment below for any questions or concerns.
