How to change your Instagram settings to use less data

Instagram has become the most important social network in recent years. Whether you’re a new user or an old pro, it’s worth checking your settings. Today at Softonic, we’ll show you how to change your Instagram settings to consume less data.

Control your data

Instagram has one quirk: everything is based on videos and images. Unlike other social networks or sites where text dominates, the audiovisual concept of Instagram is key to everything. The problem is that images and videos will chew through your data plan like Cookie Monster at the Keebler factory.

The app’s programmers know that every MB counts, so they’ve implemented a feature so your data isn’t used up so quickly. To access it, log into the Instagram app. Go to your personal profile and click on the “Settings” gear.

If you scroll down, you’ll see there are many options that you may not know about, but the one we’re interested in is called: “Cellular data use.” Click on this section.

Generally speaking, this tab comes disabled by default. Turn it on and read carefully what is highlighted below: “If you choose to use less data, videos may take longer to load over a cellular connection.”

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How does this option really affect your experience? Well, it’s basically unnoticeable. You’ll keep seeing photos and videos on Instagram easily, just now it will take a few seconds longer. In return, you won’t see high data consumption on your phone bill, something that usually happens with videos, where a quick preload is common so you start watching immediately.

It’s worth noting that this option may not appear on your Instagram app. If that’s the case, it’s not the fault of the app or your cell phone: it’s you. Go to your update menu and make sure Instagram is up-to-date. You probably have an outdated version that doesn’t yet have this useful option.