Introduction
By default, the Netflix app will play videos whether you’re connected to the internet through either a wifi connection or a cellular data connection. While this is super convenient, watching a lot of Netflix while you’re connected to a cellular data connection can use a ton of bandwidth, which can lead to you quickly maxing out your data cap, and potentially to data overage charges or you’re cellular data provider throttling your speed. Thankfully, you can easily disable the ability for Netflix to play videos when you’re connected to the internet using cellular data, and avoid the problem entirely.
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Steps to Turn Off Cellular Data Usage in the Netflix Mobile App
- Open the Netflix app on your iPhone, iPad or Android device. You’ll land on your Netflix home screen.
- Tap your profile icon at the top of the screen. A menu is displayed.
- Tap “App Settings” in this menu. The App Settings screen is shown.
- Find the Video Playback section, and then tap “Cellular Data Usage” in this section. You’ll land on the Cellular Data Usage screen.
- Tap to toggle off “Automatic” if it’s currently toggled on. Other options in this menu will now light up and be selectable.
- Tap to place a check mark next to “Wi-Fi Only.” Going forward Netflix videos on your iPhone, iPad or Android device will only be played via wifi, and videos will no longer be played when you’re just connected to a cellular data connection.
5 Reasons to Turn Off Cellular Data Usage in the Netflix Mobile App
1. Limited Mobile Data Plan
Streaming video content on Netflix can quickly consume a significant amount of data on your mobile phone. This can lead to additional charges or throttling of data speeds. Turning off cellular data usage in the Netflix app can help to conserve your mobile data and avoid exceeding your data limit. This is especially important if you have a limited mobile data plan.
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2. Slow or Spotty Cellular Network
Streaming video content on Netflix requires a stable internet connection. If you are in an area with a weak cellular network, streaming video content on Netflix may result in buffering and poor video quality. Turning off cellular data usage in the Netflix app can help to avoid this issue by ensuring that you only stream videos when you are on a stable Wi-Fi network.
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3. Battery Life
Streaming video content on Netflix can consume a lot of battery power on your mobile phone. This can lead to a shorter battery life. Turning off cellular data usage in the Netflix app can help to conserve your phone’s battery life and extend the time between charges.
4. Privacy Concerns
Some people may be concerned about their privacy and security when using cellular data to stream videos on Netflix. Turning off cellular data usage in the Netflix app can help to ensure that your video streaming activity is not tracked or monitored by your cellular provider. This can help to protect your privacy and keep your online activity confidential.
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5. Network Congestion
In some cases, cellular networks may become congested during peak usage times, leading to slower data speeds and poor video quality. Turning off cellular data usage in the Netflix app can help to avoid contributing to network congestion and help to ensure a smoother overall network experience for all users. This can be especially helpful if you are in a crowded area, such as a sporting event or concert, where many people are using their mobile phones at the same time.
