Get Guardian on GoogleAs mobile data costs continue to rise worldwide, experts warn that the way users configure their smartphones may quietly be driving up consumption.
Settings such as background app refresh, automatic updates, and video streaming quality are increasingly under scrutiny, with analysts noting that small adjustments could translate into significant savings for consumers.
The issue has gained attention as telecom providers report surging data usage across markets.
Industry observers pointed out that features like cloud synchronisation and location services often run unnoticed, steadily consuming data in the background.
Streaming platforms, meanwhile, default to high-definition playback that can quickly drain monthly allowances.
Consumer advocates argued that greater awareness of these settings could empower users to manage costs more effectively, while regulators in some regions are beginning to examine whether default configurations unfairly inflate data usage.
These issues featured at MTN Nigeria’s Data on Trial engagement in Abuja, where industry stakeholders examined the technology and consumer experiences shaping conversations around data usage and billing.
Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Dr Karl Toriola, said consumer education is central to helping customers understand the factors that influence their data consumption, including the settings on their mobile devices.
“Data on Trial helps people understand how their phone settings and background activities affect their data consumption. Through our social media platforms, we share simple tips and practical videos to help customers monitor their data balance and make informed choices about how they use their devices,” Toriola said.
Sales Manager for Xiaomi in Nigeria’s North-West region, Kelvin Kojode, highlighted how growing demand for smartphones has driven advances in mobile technology, including dual-SIM functionality, eSIM technology and 5G connectivity.
“The growing demand for smartphones has driven significant advances in mobile technology, from dual-SIM functionality and eSIM technology to 5G connectivity. These developments have changed how people connect and use their devices. With 5G, users can access services at higher speeds, and activities such as high-resolution streaming and other data-intensive applications can influence how much data they consume,” Kojode said.
Although newer network technologies enable faster connectivity, data consumption also depends on the activities users perform on their devices. Video streaming, automatic updates, cloud synchronisation and background application processes can all contribute to usage, depending on content quality, application settings and individual behaviour. Understanding these factors can help consumers make more informed decisions about how they manage their data.
Launched in Lagos in June 2026, Data on Trial provides a platform for consumers and stakeholders to raise questions about data depletion, examine how usage is measured and billed, and seek clarification from industry experts. The initiative has since extended to university engagements at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Abia State University and Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina.
At the Abuja engagement, discussions covered billing accuracy, background application activity, automatic updates, cloud synchronisation, video streaming and multi-device connectivity. The gathering brought together policymakers, technology experts, consumer advocates, media professionals and digital influencers to examine issues affecting consumers’ understanding of mobile data usage.
As mobile connectivity becomes increasingly important to communication, education, commerce, and business, understanding the relationship among device settings, digital habits, and data consumption is essential. Through Data on Trial, MTN Nigeria continues to create opportunities for consumers and industry stakeholders to discuss these issues and improve public understanding of the technology behind mobile services.
