Tips for reducing Signal data usage on mobile networks
Applies to: Signal Messenger (Android, iOS)
Last updated: September 2025
Problem
Signal uses end-to-end encryption for all communications, but calls, media downloads, and attachments can quickly consume your mobile data if not managed.
Solution
Signal includes built-in controls for call quality, auto-downloads, and data usage. Adjusting these can significantly reduce mobile data consumption.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Reduce data used in calls
- Open Signal.
- Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Data usage.
- Under When using mobile data, enable Use less data for calls.
Step 2: Control automatic media downloads
- Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Media auto-download.
- Configure options:
- Mobile data → Choose only essential media (e.g., photos).
- Wi-Fi → Allow more types if desired.
- Roaming → Set to Never auto-download.
Step 3: Restrict background data usage
- Android:
- Settings > Apps > Signal > Mobile Data & Wi-Fi > Disable Background Data.
- iPhone:
- Settings > Signal > Background App Refresh > Off.
Step 4: Limit video quality
- Compress large videos before sending.
- On mobile data, avoid auto-downloading videos from group chats.
Optional Methods or Tools
- Monitor usage in Settings > Data and Storage > Network Usage to see how much data Signal consumes.
- Use your mobile carrier’s data tracker or a third-party app for alerts.
Best Practices / Tips
- Prefer Wi-Fi for calls, video sharing, and large attachments.
- Clean up old media in Settings > Data and Storage > Manage Storage.
- Set group chats to manual download — they often share heavy files.
- Enable your phone’s system-wide data saver for extra control.
