Mobile data is not only a commodity but also carries the weight of life for millions of mobile-first users in Africa. Due to escalating data expenses and fluctuating internet connectivity, accessing content-heavy platforms like TikTok, YouTuber, and Instagram can be quite expensive. These apps are centred around video and visuals, which consume significant bandwidth by default. To stay connected, the average user on a tight budget must know how to manage their spending.
The presence of a built-in Data Saver mode in TikTok is surprising to many users. With mobile data, this feature can reduce the video quality slightly without interfering with flow or enjoyment. Activated from Settings and Privacy, it results in immediate data slowing down once the feature is turned on. It’s a useful feature for someone who spends hours scrolling through Reels and dance videos.
On the other hand, YouTube grants users more control. Users can enable videos to stream at lower resolutions when not connected to Wi-Fi by selecting the “Limit mobile data usage” option in the settings. This configuration can save hundreds of megabytes every day. The resolution of each video can be manually reduced or disable autoplay to prevent the next clip from loading automatically, something that many don’t think about until they get a data warning text from their network provider.
There is no formal data-saving mode on Instagram, but subtle controls make a difference. In the app, the option to use less mobile data option prevents the automatic preloading of videos and Reels. If you disable the uploading of high-quality content, your stories/posts/videos will not be uploaded in ultra-HD format as it uses up more background data. Reducing time spent on the Explore tab, which keeps you informed with fresh information, is another strategic move.
In addition to app-specific settings, users can employ several common behaviors (habits) to increase their data usage. The most beneficial approach is to use Wi-Fi for downloading videos or updates. While Wi-Fi is not always present in homes, individuals can use public hotspots or workplace networks to save content for offline viewing. Many people fail to realize that YouTube and TikTok now offer video storage for offline use, particularly in areas with poor internet connectivity.
A method that is not commonly used is to limit background data. Often apps use data in the background to sync, update or push content. Using the device’s settings, users have the ability to block apps like Instagram from running background tasks while on mobile data and prevent silent consumption. Android and iOS both offer native tools to track how much data each app uses, which can help users monitor and control their heaviest offenders.
These strategies are especially important in Africa, where mobile data costs are still disproportionately high. A 2024 GSMA report highlighted that many countries on the continent still face data pricing that exceeds the affordability threshold defined by the UN. Effective data usage is not only a matter for personal use, but also reflects digital inclusion. These platforms are used by users in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa for entertainment, education, business, creativity, among other things. Whether you’re a student watching tutorials, a creator uploading content, or just someone trying to stay updated, being data-smart is now part of daily digital life.
