Common reasons for high AT&T PREPAID data use

Understand common causes for data overages – video and music streaming, conferencing, and online gaming. Plus, get tools to help you choose the best plan.

How to limit data usage charges

Make sure you're on the best plan

If you often run out of data or use more data than included in your plan, you may want to consider changing your AT&T PREPAID℠ (formerly GoPhone®) plan.

Be aware of what uses data

Activities that use a lot of data

Many devices on your plan – smartphones, tablets, and even in-car Wi-Fi® – use wireless data that can count against your monthly allowance.
 
These activities1 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
 

App syncing, updating, notifications, and autoplay

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

For example, videos often play automatically as you scroll through your newsfeed on social media apps. You may want to disable cellular data for video autoplay within each app's settings on your device.

Good to know:
 
  • Some apps may use wireless data even when your device is connected to Wi-Fi.
  • Go to Device Support 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

Manage your usage

Learn about ways to manage your data use.

 

Keep track of your usage

 
See all important details
Last updated: February 28, 2023

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