Tips for reducing Telegram data usage on mobile networks

Applies to: Telegram Messenger (Android, iOS, Desktop with synced mobile)
Last updated: September 2025

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Problem

Telegram can quickly consume large amounts of mobile data, especially with auto-downloading photos, videos, voice notes, and high-quality calls. This is a concern if you have a limited data plan.

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Solution

Telegram includes built-in options to control auto-downloads, reduce call quality, and limit background data usage.

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Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Manage auto-downloads

1. Open Telegram.
2. Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Automatic Media Download.
3. Configure options for:
   • Using Mobile Data → Choose only essential media (e.g., Photos).
   • Using Wi-Fi → Allow more media if desired.
   • Roaming → Usually best set to No media.

Step 2: Reduce data used during calls

1. Go to Settings > Data and Storage.
2. Under Call Settings, enable Use Less Data for Calls.

Step 3: Disable auto-play for videos/GIFs

1. Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Auto-Play Media.
2. Turn off GIF autoplay or Video autoplay when on mobile data.

Step 4: Restrict background data

• Android:
  • Settings > Apps > Telegram > Mobile Data & Wi-Fi > Disable Background Data.
• iPhone:
  • Settings > Telegram > Background App Refresh > Off.

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Optional Methods or Tools

• Use your carrier’s data monitoring tool or third-party apps (like My Data Manager) to track Telegram’s usage.
• Compress photos and videos before sending (Telegram automatically compresses, but you can manually resize large files).

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Best Practices / Tips

• Prefer Wi-Fi for calls, video sharing, and large file transfers.
• Clean up large files periodically: Settings > Data and Storage > Storage Usage.
• Disable auto-downloads in large groups or channels where media flow is heavy.
• Use low data mode on your device (iOS: Low Data Mode, Android: Data Saver).