Low Data Mode on iPhone lives in the Settings app, and it can be turned on separately for cellular data and for each Wi‑Fi network.

Where Low Data Mode is on iPhone

For cellular data (4G/LTE/most plans)

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Cellular (sometimes called Mobile Data).
  3. Tap Cellular Data Options.
  4. Tap Data Mode (on some older devices this may go straight to the toggles).
  5. Choose Low Data Mode to turn it on for your cellular connection.

On many newer iPhones (including 5G models), Low Data Mode is a choice inside Data Mode alongside options like Standard or “Allow More Data on 5G.”

For Wi‑Fi networks

Low Data Mode is also available per Wi‑Fi network.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Wi‑Fi.
  3. Tap the “i” (info) button next to the Wi‑Fi network you’re currently using.
  4. Scroll until you see Low Data Mode and toggle it on or off.

This setting applies only to that specific Wi‑Fi network, so you can have Low Data Mode on at home but off at work (or vice versa).

Quick note on what it does

When Low Data Mode is on, your iPhone slows or pauses background activity to save data:

  • Fewer background app refreshes and delayed updates.
  • Lower‑quality streaming for video and music.
  • Slower or paused iCloud Photos and other background uploads.

TL;DR

  • Cellular: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Data Mode → select Low Data Mode.
  • Wi‑Fi: Settings → Wi‑Fi → tap the “i” next to your network → toggle Low Data Mode.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.