Effective Ways to Reduce Telegram Data Usage - iPhone and Android [2025] 💥

Updated: December 14, 2024 | by: Martijn Assie, creating websites & shops since 20 years, also Linux-, Wordpress-,
Photoshop- and SEO expert. | 0 comments

Telegram is a widely-used messaging app, offering rich features that make digital communication seamless. However, it can also be a significant data hog if not properly managed. Whether you're using Telegram on Android or iPhone, there are tailored ways to curtail its data usage. This article will highlight methods specific to both platforms to help you save on data while using Telegram.

1. Limiting Media Auto-Download

The Telegram FAQ explains that media files, such as photos and videos, are auto-downloaded in Telegram by default. This can quickly eat up data, especially in busy group chats.

For Android:

Open Telegram and tap the three vertical dots (menu) on the top right.
Go to 'Settings' > 'Data and Storage'.
Under 'Automatic media download', adjust settings for 'Using Mobile Data'.

For iPhone:

Open Telegram and tap 'Settings' at the bottom right.
Select 'Data and Storage'.
Under 'Automatic media download', customize the settings for mobile data.

2. Reduce Video Quality on Calls

High-definition video calls are a major data guzzler. Reducing video quality can result in significant data savings. To manage this, visit Telegram's support or follow the steps below.

For Android & iPhone:

During a video call, tap on the settings or three dots icon.
Choose 'Video Quality' and select a lower resolution.

3. Enable Low Data Usage for Calls

Telegram's 'Low Data Usage' feature compresses voice call audio to save data.

For Android:

Go to Telegram 'Settings'.
Select 'Data and Storage' > 'Call Settings' and toggle on 'Low Data Usage'.

For iPhone:

In 'Settings', tap 'Data and Storage'.
Under 'Voice Call', enable 'Low Data Mode'.

4. Utilize Telegram's Secret Chats

Telegram secret chats offer end-to-end encryption, meaning data isn't stored on Telegram servers, thus saving data when backing up.

5. Monitor Active Sessions

Multiple active sessions can consume more data. Learn how to manage these sessions through our guide on Telegram sessions.

6. Clear Telegram Cache

Cached data, while helpful for quick access, can accumulate and consume background data.

For Android:

Go to 'Settings' > 'Data and Storage' > 'Storage Usage' and tap 'Clear Cache'.

For iPhone:

Under 'Settings', select 'Data and Storage' and tap 'Clear Cache'.

7. Refine Privacy Settings

Minimize unsolicited messages and media by adjusting privacy settings. Check out our Telegram privacy settings guide.

8. Activate 2-Step Verification

Enhance security and prevent unauthorized data consumption with Telegram 2-Step Verification.

9. Implement a Passlock Code

Prevent unwarranted access and data consumption by setting a passcode. See our guide on Telegram passlock for detailed steps.

10. Platform-Specific Tips

For Android:

Restrict background data for Telegram under phone 'Settings' > 'Apps' > 'Telegram' > 'Data Usage'.

For iPhone:

Go to 'Settings' > 'Telegram' and toggle off 'Background App Refresh'.

In summation, optimizing Telegram's settings according to your device can drastically reduce data usage, ensuring you get the most out of your mobile plan. Make it a habit to periodically review and adjust your settings for optimal data conservation.