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How to Use Mobile Data

Make sure you're connected, even when you're away from Wi-Fi

Updated this week

If you can’t connect to the internet when you’re away from Wi-Fi, you may need to turn on cellular (mobile) data. This guide explains how to do it on iPhone and Android devices, and what to check if it’s still not working.

iPhone (iOS 16 & iOS 17)

The steps for enabling cellular data are the same in both iOS 16 and iOS 17.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings

    • Tap the Settings app on your Home Screen.

  2. Go to Cellular or Mobile Data

    • In the U.S., it’s labeled Cellular.

    • In some regions, it appears as Mobile Data.

  3. Toggle Cellular Data On

    • Switch the Cellular Data (or Mobile Data) toggle to ON (green).

  4. Check Data Options

    • Tap Cellular Data Options to:

      • Enable Data Roaming if traveling.

      • Choose Voice & Data mode (LTE, 5G, etc.).

      • Turn on Low Data Mode if you want to reduce usage.

If you have two lines / two active SIMs on your phone, you can enable Cellular Data Switching under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > by toggling Allow Cellular Data Switching

Android (Android 13 & Android 14)

The process for Android 13 and 14 is nearly identical, though exact wording may differ by phone brand (Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, etc.).

Steps:

  1. Open Settings

    • Tap the Settings app.

  2. Go to Network Settings

    • Look for Network & Internet, Connections, or SIM & Network, depending on your device.

  3. Select Mobile Network

    • Tap Mobile Network (or SIMs & Mobile Network).

  4. Turn On Mobile Data

    • Toggle the Mobile Data switch to ON.

  5. Check Options

    • Enable Data Roaming if needed.

    • Verify your Preferred Network Type is LTG / 5G

Troubleshooting if Data Still Doesn’t Work

  • Airplane Mode: Make sure it’s off.

  • Restart: Power off and back on.

  • SIM: Ensure it’s inserted correctly and active.

  • Account: Confirm your plan is active and has data available. You can check your SIM status and in usage in the Helium Mobile app.

  • Software Update:

    • iOS: Settings → General → Software Update

    • Android: Settings → System → System Update

  • Reset Network Settings:

    • iOS: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings

    • Android: Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth

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