When using Saily eSIM, some apps and system services may continue to use mobile data in the background. This can lead to unexpected or fast data usage.
In this article, we’ll explain why background services use mobile data and how to disable them on iOS and Android devices to help you save data while using Saily eSIM.
NOTE: Disabling background services is especially useful while using Saily eSIM. Once you stop using the eSIM or switch back to your regular mobile network, you can re‑enable background data to restore full app functionality.
Why background services use data?
Background services allow apps to:
- Refresh content (social apps, email, news)
- Upload or download data (photos, backups)
- Track location
- Sync accounts automatically
While useful, these services often consume mobile data without you noticing.
How to disable background services?
The steps below show how to disable background services on your device.
On iOS
- Open Settings:
- Tap General:
- Scroll down a little and tap Background App Refresh:
- Tap Background App Refresh:
- Tap either Off or Wi-Fi:
- After changing your background data settings, fully close the app and reopen it to make sure the changes are applied correctly.
On Android
- Open Settings:
- Tap Network & Internet:
- Tap Data Saver:
- Tap the toggle to enable data saver:
- After changing your background data settings, fully close the app and reopen it to make sure the changes are applied correctly.
