You just got an iPhone 12 and want to learn more about its 5G features. 5G usage can drain battery life quickly, but Apple has built in a new setting to help address this problem. In this article, I'll explain what Smart Data Mode is and show you how to turn it on!
Smart Data Mode, Explained
Smart Data Mode is a new setting that allows 5G iPhones to switch between the 4G and 5G networks intelligently based on network availability. Apple built in this setting to help conserve iPhone battery life, as 5G usage can drain it quickly.
How To Turn On Smart Data Mode
Turning this feature on can be a little confusing because there is no “Smart Data Mode” setting. This feature is called 5G Auto in the iPhone Settings app.
Open Settings and tap Cellular -> Cellular Data Options. Then, tap Voice & Data. You'll have the option to choose between 5G On, 5G Auto, and LTE. 5G Auto is selected by default.
If there's no 5G coverage in your area, it may be worthwhile to choose LTE instead of 5G Auto. It's possible your iPhone could drain some additional battery life searching for nearby 5G networks that don't exist. Check out our other article to learn more about 5G and which carriers have the most coverage.
Which iPhones Have Smart Data Mode?
The iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, and 12 Mini are the only models that have Smart Data Mode because they're the only iPhones that support 5G. We expect subsequent 5G iPhones to support this feature as well.
Get Smart
You're now an expert on Smart Data Mode! Make sure to share this article on social media to teach your friends and family about this new iPhone feature. Leave a comment down below if you have any other questions about 5G or the iPhone 12.
