Many users iOS Many people encounter situations where internet access is unstable or limits download speeds on connected devices. This is often caused by the data-saving feature, which aggressively compresses data and blocks background processes. This can be critical if you use your smartphone as the primary modem for a laptop or tablet while traveling.
In modern versions of the operating system, Apple has implemented smart algorithms that try to extend battery life and save megabytes on your data plan. However, for full functionality modem mode These restrictions must be removed manually. In this article, we'll explain where exactly these settings are hidden and how to configure them correctly.
It is worth considering that the menu interface may differ slightly depending on the version. iOS and your models iPhoneBelow are the current paths for the latest versions of the system, but the operating logic remains the same for all Apple devices.
Why is Data Saver enabled on iPhone?
System iOS By default, your phone may activate a low-data mode, especially if you've previously connected to networks with limited data. This is a protective mechanism designed to prevent you from accidentally exceeding your mobile carrier's data limits. When this feature is enabled, the phone not only limits background syncing but can also deprioritize data packets when operating in router mode.
Moreover, some carriers preset their own settings profiles that force optimization. This is done to prevent users from using up their entire gigabyte package in one evening while watching high-definition videos. However, for those who knowingly share their internet, such restrictions become a barrier.
⚠️ Attention: Disabling data savings will cause your mobile data plan to deplete faster. Make sure you have an unlimited plan or sufficient data before making any changes.
It's also worth noting that speed is affected not only by software limitations, but also by the physical location of the device. If iPhone If the device is in a metal case or far from the receiving device, the system may automatically reduce throughput in an attempt to conserve battery power, which is mistakenly perceived as saving traffic.
Where can I find the modem settings?
First, you need to access the Network Connections Control Center. The path to this menu is standard for all Apple devices, but finding it the first time can be difficult due to the deeply nested nature of some settings. You need to open the app. Settings on the main screen.
Next you should select the item Cellular communications (In some locales, it may be called "Mobile Data"). This is where the key switches responsible for data transfer to the outside world are located. If you have a dual-SIM device, make sure the SIM card you plan to use for tethering is selected.
- 📱 Click on the icon Modem mode in the main settings menu.
- 📡 Alternative route:
Settings→Cellular communications→Modem mode. - 🔌 Check if the switch is activated Allow others.
This section also displays the password for connecting to the Wi-Fi network. This is where you control your phone's visibility to other devices. If the slider is off, no external data-saving settings will help—the network will simply not be broadcast.
Disabling Low Data Mode for sharing
One of the main reasons for artificially lowering the speed is the mode Low Data Mode (Data Saver). Unlike simple battery saving, this mode directly impacts bandwidth. It disables automatic updates, photo syncing, and high-quality video streams.
To disable this restriction, go to the menu Cellular communications → Data parameters → Data modeHere you'll see three options: "Allow more data on 5G," "Standard," and "Data Saver." To enable full data sharing, select Standard mode.
After switching, the system may interrupt the connection to the operator's network for a few seconds to reconfigure the settings. This is normal behavior. Once the connection is restored, your iPhone will stop compressing traffic, and the speed on connected devices should increase.
| Parameter | Data savings | Standard mode | 5G Auto |
|---|---|---|---|
| Background synchronization | Prohibited | Allowed | Allowed |
| Video quality | Low | High | High |
| Traffic consumption | Minimum | Ordinary | Maximum |
| Distribution speed | Limited | Full | Full |
⚠️ Attention: The settings interface may be updated with the release of new versions. iOSIf you don't see these options, check the "Cellular Data" section at the very bottom of the cellular settings list.
☑️ Checking data transfer settings
Setting up APN for tethering
Often the problem lies not in the general settings of the phone, but in the access point profile APNTelecom operators may specify specific parameters that prevent the device from functioning as a full-fledged router. This is especially true for plans where internet access is formally limited or subject to a fee.
To access these settings, follow this path: Settings → Cellular communications → Cellular data network. At the bottom of the screen you will find a section Modem modeThere may be fields for entering the APN, username, and password.
If the fields are filled with values other than the standard ones or contain special additions (for example, tethering or share), try clearing them or replacing them with your operator's default values. Usually, it's enough to leave the fields blank or simply enter internet, but it’s better to check the exact data on the provider’s website.
What should I do if the APN fields are blocked?
Some operators block editing of these fields via the configuration profile. In this case, the only solution is to reset the network settings or install the official profile from the operator's website, if available.
Correct APN configuration ensures that data packets are routed correctly, without unnecessary checks and restrictions from the operator's gateways within the network.
How iOS version affects Hotspot
With each update iOS Apple is changing the way network modules work. In some versions (for example, in early beta versions) iOS 15 or iOS 16) There were bugs where the phone would stop sharing the internet after the screen was locked. This could also be mistaken for data savings, although it's actually a power-saving error.
If you notice that the streaming stops when the screen goes black, check for system updates. Apple frequently releases patches to fix this issue. HotspotIt's also worth paying attention to your screen settings: if auto-lock is set too quickly, the phone may aggressively disable the Wi-Fi module.
- 🔄 Make sure you have the latest stable version installed iOS.
- ⏳ Increase the auto-lock time in the menu
Screen and brightness. - 🔋 Disable power saving mode (yellow battery), as it often conflicts with distribution.
Additionally, new versions feature a "Maximum Compatibility" feature in tethering mode. This switches the network to the 2.4 GHz frequency. This reduces speed but improves connection stability with older devices.
Additional operator restrictions
It's important to remember that phone settings are only one side of the coin. Your carrier sees that you're tethering based on the settings. TTL (Time To Live). If your plan prohibits or limits data sharing, your carrier may artificially throttle your speed to 64-128 kbps, regardless of your settings. iPhone.
In this case, no amount of manipulation of the "Data Saver" menu will help. You'll need to either upgrade to a more expensive plan that allows tethering, or use more complex workarounds, such as changing the TTL on the phone itself (which requires a jailbreak or specific profiles).
⚠️ Attention: Bypassing operator restrictions may be against your contract. We recommend reviewing your tariff plan before attempting to change network system parameters.
You can check for restrictions by connecting your laptop and running a speed test. If page loading speeds are normal, but videos or torrents aren't working, it's almost certainly a traffic restriction from your ISP.
Alternative ways to distribute Internet
If Wi-Fi sharing is still not working well even after all the settings have been adjusted, it's worth considering alternative connection options. iPhone Supports data transfer via USB cable and Bluetooth. These methods are often more stable and generate less heat.
USB sharing is particularly effective: it simultaneously charges your phone and ensures maximum data transfer speed without any loss over the radio channel. To do this, simply connect your phone to your computer via a cable and select the network that matches your connection in the PC's network connections menu. iPhone.
Bluetooth is slower but consumes less power than Wi-Fi. This can be a good compromise if you want to conserve battery but don't need high speed (for example, for email or messaging).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my battery drain quickly after turning off traffic saving?
Modem mode requires the radio modules to be constantly active, which consumes a significant amount of power. Without power savings, the phone doesn't limit background processes and maintains high signal strength, which leads to rapid battery drain. It's recommended to keep the phone charged while tethering.
Is it possible to turn off saving for just one app?
IN iOS There's no native feature to selectively disable data savings for specific apps while in tethering mode. The settings apply globally to the entire device. However, you can manually select streaming quality in the app's settings (for example, YouTube or Spotify).
Will resetting network settings solve the problem?
Yes, reset network settings (Settings → Main → Transfer or reset iPhone → Reset → Reset network settings) often helps if the problem is caused by a software glitch or an incorrect carrier profile. Please note that this action will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords.
Does the case affect the distribution speed?
Yes, metal or thick rubber cases can shield the signal, causing the phone to increase transmit power or reduce connection speed. To test the speed, try removing the case and placing the phone on an open surface.