FaceTime is a great way for Apple users to stay connected to their family and friends. Unlike a traditional phone call, FaceTime allows iPhone (or iPad or Mac) users to join a video call seamlessly over any network. However, users may find themselves asking just how much data does FaceTime use? We break down the network usage and show you how to disable FaceTime on your cellular network.
FaceTime uses how much data?
FaceTime data usage greatly varies depending on the iPhone (or iPad or Mac) that you are using, the iOS version that is installed, and the strength of your network connection. Typically, an iPhone connected to a Wi-Fi network will use between 2 and 6 megabytes (MB) of data per minute. However, FaceTime on a cellular network will use between 2 and 10 MB per minute.
There are several ways to help reduce the amount of data that you are using while on FaceTime. We recommend turning off your camera, or even asking other participants to turn off their camera while on the call. Additionally, users can connect to a free local hotspot location to access FaceTime on another network.
Note: If you choose to use public WiFi network, be sure to follow our guide on how to encrypt your internet connection.
How to Disable FaceTime Data
By default, FaceTime will use your cellular network’s data to connect to a call if you are not connected to a WiFi network. Although convenient, this feature may end up giving you quite the surprise on your next cell phone bill. In order to disable FaceTime from using your data, follow the steps below!
1. Make sure that the FaceTime app is installed on your device. This can be found on the App Store.
2. Open the Settings menu.
3. Select Cellular under the first group of options.
4. Scroll down until you find FaceTime.
5. Toggle FaceTime OFF.
That’s it! Your iPhone will no longer use your cellular network for FaceTime.
Conclusion
Overall, FaceTime uses more data than regular apps. Due to the nature of streaming audio and video at the same time, FaceTime can quickly eat away at your cell phones monthly usage. Luckily, this can be avoided by reducing the amount of video streaming, or disabling data usage all together.