Ever wondered where all your mobile data went? Maybe your phone bill’s higher than expected, or your iPhone warned you that you’re “close to your limit.” Whatever the case, knowing how to check your data usage is one of the easiest ways to stay in control — and avoid those surprise overages.
Here’s everything you need to know about tracking and managing mobile data on your iPhone, step by step.
Check Your Data Usage in Settings
The fastest way to see how much mobile data you’ve used is built right into your iPhone.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Mobile Data (or Cellular, depending on your region).
- Scroll down to the section labeled Current Period — that’s where your total data usage lives.
You’ll see two main stats:
- Current Period: your total data use since the last reset.
- Current Period Roaming: data you’ve used while traveling abroad.
Pro Tip: iPhones don’t automatically reset this counter every month. You’ll need to do it manually to match your carrier’s billing cycle.
Reset Data Usage at the Start of Your Billing Cycle
To get accurate monthly readings, it’s best to reset your data statistics when your billing cycle starts.
Here’s how:
- Go to Settings → Mobile Data.
- Scroll all the way to the bottom.
- Tap Reset Statistics.
Once reset, your “Current Period” starts counting from zero again, perfect for tracking your next month’s usage.
See Which Apps Use the Most Data
Wondering which app is burning through your data plan? Scroll through the same Mobile Data page, and you’ll find a breakdown by app.
You’ll see exactly how much data each app has used since the last reset. Streaming apps like YouTube, TikTok, and Spotify usually top the list, but even background apps like Photos or iCloud Drive can quietly consume data.
If something looks off, you can turn off Mobile Data for that specific app. Just toggle the switch next to it. The app will only connect over Wi-Fi until you turn it back on.
Safety Tip: Disable data access for any app you don’t use regularly. It’ll save bandwidth and battery life.
Check Carrier Data Usage
If you’d rather rely on your mobile network’s own records, most carriers provide usage tracking too.
- Open Settings → Mobile Data.
- Tap Mobile Data Options → Mobile Data Network.
- Scroll down to Network Provider Services, some carriers list shortcuts here to their apps or websites.
Alternatively, download your carrier’s official app:
- EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three in the UK
- AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile in the US
These apps often show real-time data usage, remaining data allowances, and upcoming billing dates.
Use Widgets for Quick Access
If you like to monitor your usage often, you can add a data tracking widget to your Home Screen.
While iOS doesn’t have a built-in one, third-party apps like My Data Manager, Data Usage, or SmartApp can plug into iOS widgets and show live usage stats at a glance.
To add one:
- Touch and hold the Home Screen.
- Tap the + icon in the top-left corner.
- Search for your data tracker app.
- Choose a widget size and tap Add Widget.
Manage Data with Low Data Mode
If you’re nearing your monthly limit, Low Data Mode helps stretch your remaining data.
To enable it:
- Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Mobile Data Options.
- Toggle on Low Data Mode.
This reduces background activity, pauses automatic updates, and slows down high-bandwidth features, like syncing photos or auto-playing videos.
Pro Tip: You can enable Low Data Mode separately for Wi-Fi networks too. Head to Settings → Wi-Fi → (Your Network) and toggle on Low Data Mode.
Bonus: Track Data on Dual SIM iPhones
If you’re using an iPhone with Dual SIM or eSIM, you can check data for each plan individually.
- Go to Settings → Mobile Data.
- Tap the line (SIM) you want to check.
- You’ll see usage info specific to that number or plan.
It’s handy if you use one SIM for work and another for personal use, or if you travel often with different carriers.
Conclusion
Monitoring your mobile data isn’t complicated, and it can save you from nasty surprises when your bill arrives.
The built-in tools on iPhone give you a complete picture of how much data you’re using, which apps are the biggest offenders, and how to rein it all in with Low Data Mode.
Take a few minutes to check your stats today, your wallet (and your battery) will thank you later.
