If you have a smartphone, you know that some apps, such as those that allow you to stream music and video, eat up wireless internet (also called “data”) faster than other, more basic apps. But these apps aren’t the only data hogs. Here are four that consume more than you may think.
Facebook Messenger is a great way to keep in touch with Facebook friends, but it’s also a data hog. While the app consumes only a fraction of the data that a video-streaming app such as Netflix would during the same period of time, the app is often left running in the background. This means that information is constantly being downloaded and transmitted to the server, even when you’re not sending photos or voice recordings with the app. The solution: Quit the app when you’re not using it.
Free | iPhone, Android and Windows Phone
We all love eBay, and the mobile app lets you bid, watch and browse wherever you are, so you never miss out on that cherished Velvet Elvis painting you have your eye on. You can even find items with a barcode scanner. But here’s the rub: The app requires ample data to operate because it doesn’t cache information. Solution: Make sure it’s off when you don’t need it, or try to use it when you’re at home using your Wi-Fi.
Free | iPhone, Android and Windows Phone
Google Maps offers directions for driving, biking, walking and public transportation. It can show buildings in 3D, provide voice-guided GPS navigation, and has a slew of other features. Unfortunately, its hefty reliance on data connection is a noteworthy drawback. Even while not being used, the app continues to track location and calculate routes, all of which use large amounts of data. According to a recent study, Google Maps used 22.03 MB when left running for 45 minutes on standby. Solution: turn it off when not using it, and if possible, download maps while in Wi-Fi zones.
Free | iPhone and Android | $0.99 Windows Phone
Asphalt 7: Heat is a popular racing game with fast, visually stunning graphics. The game has more than 60 cars from some of the world’s most prestigious automakers including Ferrari, Aston Martin and Lamborghini, and players can race on up to 15 tracks in real cities all over the world. But Asphalt 7: Heat has been criticized for its high data usage. It also appears on Verizon’s list of data hungry apps. Solution: Connect to Wi-Fi when using this app.
