iOS 9’s new Wi-Fi Assist feature might have you accidentally burning through your data plan, so to clear up any confunsion about the new iPhone feature that switches you over to LTE speeds when a Wi-Fi network is weak, Apple has released a new support document detailing exactly how and when Wi-Fi Assist should work.
Wi-Fi Assist is on by default, but Apple gave users three caveats that should help people understand when their data can be used by the feature:
- Wi-Fi Assist will not automatically switch to cellular if you’re data roaming.
- Wi-Fi Assist only works when you have apps running in the foreground and doesn’t activate with background downloading of content.
- Wi-Fi Assist doesn’t activate with some third-party apps that stream audio or video, or download attachments, like an email app, as they might use large amounts of data.
If you’re on an unlimited plan you have nothing to worry about and should keep Wi-Fi Assist on for the best experience possible. However, if your stuck on a limited data plan, you can switch the feature off by following these simple steps.
Via: Six Colors
Buster Hein is a freelance writer who lives in Phoenix, Arizona. Twitter: @bst3r.
5 responses to “Apple clears the air on Wi-Fi Assist confusion”
I contacted Apple about this when I got my iPhone two weeks ago. For a large company I am very impressed at the turn around time and clarity of the issue.
I’d say that you should check of your monthly usage, even if you’re on an unlimited plan.
And see that you’re using more of your unlimited data? Well that was pointless.
You should do this not for your wallet, but for security. If your usage surge for no obvious reason, you should identify the source of traffic. It could be malware or spamware, which would possibly damage your system or kill your battery. Even in iOS, there are still “legal” approaches to download and install software outside App Store.
Just no. I don’t jailbreak so I’m good. Users only have to be smart to avoid stupid stuff. The App Store is the only way to install apps on iOS. So no, I will keep this enabled and see no side effects.