Common reasons for high data use

Over your limit? Learn how to track and manage data. Plus, find out which activities (like video and music streaming) use the most.

Be aware of what uses data

Activities that use a lot of data

Many devices on your plan—smartphones, tablets, and even AT&T Connected Car™—use wireless data that can count against your monthly allowance.

These activities can consume a lot of data:

High definition video streaming (900MB per hour)
Video conferencing, like FaceTime® and Skype® (480MB per hour)
Standard-definition video streaming (240MB per hour)
Online interactive gaming (60MB per hour)
Streaming music (30MB per hour)
Downloading movies and large data files

Good to know: Data usage varies by device. These examples are based on averages and are estimates only. The actual amount of data used can vary.

App syncing, updates, notifications, and autoplay

Many apps sync to the cloud, update themselves, and send notifications automatically. These functions can use data in the background.

Good to know:

Some apps may use wireless data even when your device is connected to Wi-Fi.
You can go to Device help or check with your manufacturer to get specific instructions for your device. Search for details on how to disable auto-update, automatic sync, and manage notifications.

Know your data usage options

Make sure you’re on the best plan

If you regularly go over your plan’s data limit, consider changing to one of our unlimited plans.

Learn more about AT&T unlimited plans.
Sign in to compare your plan with our other options.

Manage your usage

Learn about ways to manage your data use.

Keep track of your usage

Sign in and check your usage. Then select View usage by category under the data usage graph (primary account users only).
Call *3282# (*DATA#) from your AT&T wireless phone. For Spanish, dial *3285#. We'll send a text message with your data and messaging usage.

Last updated: January 17, 2025

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