How to Check, Monitor (and Reduce) Your Data Usage on Samsung Galaxy S8

After our first post on how to check, monitor (and reduce) your data usage on android a keen follower of our blog requested that we return the favour by specifically writing a guide on how to check, monitor and reduce data usage on a Samsung Galaxy S8, so that’s what has gotten us to this point.

Therefore, this guide will show you how to check and monitor data usage on the Samsung Galaxy S8. These days most videos default to high-resolution on the big Galaxy S8 screen. Even if you have an unlimited data plan you can still burn through all your high-speed data watching HD videos.

No one wants to go over their monthly data allowance. Carriers will charge you expensive overage fees, or slow down your internet speeds once you reach your limit. Luckily, Google built controls right into Android so you can track, monitor, or even set limits on data usage.

Our video above goes over everything you need to know, and where to find it. Or, follow the step-by-step instructions below.

How to Check Data Usage on the Galaxy S8

There are a few different ways to track data usage on Samsung devices, and some carriers like Verizon have dedicated apps for exactly that. However, using the tools already on your phone is the easiest way.

• Open Settings in the app tray or by tapping the gear-shaped settings button in the pulldown bar
• Select Connections
• Then tap on Data Usage

In here, you’ll instantly see how much data you’re using this month. As you can see, I’m at 2.8GB with my limit reminder set to 3.5GB each month. Some details from carriers may differ slightly to what you see here, but they’re typically close enough that it’s nothing to worry about.

It’s worth noting that your monthly billing cycle might not start on the 1st day of the month. If it doesn’t, tap on “billing cycle and data warning” to change the dates to match your plan.

Monitor App Data Usage

If you’re close to going over your monthly data plan or are using more than expected, you can check and see what apps are using all of your data. Tap on Mobile data usage to see a graph that breaks down all the numbers.

This is a good place to start if you’re worried about getting overage charges. This shows you exactly where all your data went. Tap on an app for more details, or to limit background usage.

How to Set Data Warning & Limits on the Galaxy S8

If you or a family member constantly go over the monthly data plan allowance, consider setting data usage warnings or even limits. In the same Settings > Connections > Data Usage menu mentioned earlier, follow the steps and images below.

• In the Data Usage menu tap on Billing cycle and data warning
• Choose the correct billing cycle start/end day of the month
• Flip the Set Data Warning toggle ON
• Tap on Data warning and choose what’s best for you (We chose 2GB warnings)

Adding a data usage warning is a good way to prevent overage charges. If you have a 5GB monthly data plan, set it for something like 2-3GB. That way you know when you’ve used about half of your plan in any particular month, and when to cut back.

If you have a child or family member that constantly uses too much data, set a data limit. Once you turn this on, mobile data will completely shut off once you reach that limit. Saving you from excessive overage charges or internet speed throttling. In the general data usage menu, Samsung also has a breakdown of WiFi data usage, giving you more information if you need it.

So, keep an eye on your data usage and set limits so you don’t go over your monthly data plan.