9to5Mac website has been testing the data usage of the Apple FaceTime feature over 3G by putting two iPhones to the test. Running one FaceTime over 3G, and taking before and after screenshots of the data usage.
A 5-minute call resulted in 14.7MB of data transfers, including both uploading and downloading over 3G. Which then converts to a usage of about 3MB per minute while running FaceTime.
Understanding FaceTime Data Usage
FaceTime, Apple’s video calling service, has become a popular way for iPhone users to stay connected with friends and family. However, using FaceTime over a cellular network, such as 3G, can consume a significant amount of data. The test conducted by 9to5Mac highlights that a 5-minute FaceTime call over 3G uses approximately 14.7MB of data. This translates to roughly 3MB per minute, which can add up quickly if you frequently use FaceTime on a limited data plan.
To put this into perspective, if you were to use FaceTime for an hour over 3G, you would consume around 180MB of data. For users with limited data plans, this could mean reaching their data cap much faster than anticipated. It’s important to monitor your data usage and be aware of how much data different activities consume.
Alternatives and Considerations
If you are looking to use FaceTime over 3G, you will need to jailbreak your iPhone beforehand. Jailbreaking your iPhone allows you to bypass Apple’s restrictions and use FaceTime over a cellular network. However, jailbreaking can void your warranty and expose your device to security risks, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before proceeding.
An alternative application you could use is Fring, which according to reports, uses about 1MB per minute over 3G. Fring is a third-party app that supports video calling and can be a more data-efficient option for users who need to make video calls over a cellular network. However, it’s worth noting that the quality of the video call may not be as high as FaceTime, and the user experience may vary.
Another consideration is the availability of Wi-Fi. Whenever possible, it’s advisable to use FaceTime over a Wi-Fi connection instead of 3G. Wi-Fi connections typically offer faster speeds and do not count against your cellular data usage. This can help you avoid exceeding your data cap and incurring additional charges from your carrier.
Additionally, many carriers now offer unlimited data plans or plans with higher data caps, which can provide more flexibility for using data-intensive applications like FaceTime. If you frequently use FaceTime or other video calling services, it may be worth exploring these options to ensure you have enough data to meet your needs.
In conclusion, while FaceTime is a convenient and popular way to stay connected, it’s important to be mindful of its data usage, especially when using it over a cellular network like 3G. By understanding how much data FaceTime consumes and exploring alternative options and strategies, you can make informed decisions about how to best use this feature without exceeding your data limits.
Via Engadget Via 9to5Mac
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