This is not a tech blog. I repeat. This is not a tech blog. But I thought I’d share this little tidbit of information, as shared with me by Alan tonight.
Do you have an iPhone? Have you updated to the new iOS9? Do you use data…a lot? Well, do this now: Head to Settings, then Mobile Data, then scroll to the bottom of the menu where you can turn Wi-Fi Assist off.
I have a little gizmo which is otherwise known as mifi but I noticed that since I upgraded to the new iOS, my phone automatically disconnected from the wifi connection from my little mifi thingmebob and switched to 3G. This happened only when my wifi signal from the mifi was weak or when the connection failed. I don’t mind so much, but the whole point of my mifi is so that I don’t use up all the data that I have.
Apparently, the new iOS has a feature called “wifi assist” which automatically helps you connect to the best data connection. So if, like me, you’ve a mifi thingmebob or mobile broadbandy thing, and the little doohickey has a weak connection, your lovely iPhone which you dutifully upgraded to the next brand spanking new operating system, will disconnect from your weak wifi mifi and connect to the strongest wifi signal around. If said wifi signal isn’t available, it’ll use your data connection. If, like me, you’re trying to be diligent and trying not to use up your data allowance, then this spells bad news. Luckily, I’m on a prepaid account so I can still monitor my usage. But for everyone on a mobile contract, you might see your data usage skyrocket ergo, HUGE mobile phone bills!
So, have a care and head to Settings, then Mobile Data, then scroll to the bottom of the menu where you can turn Wi-Fi Assist off.
If you’d like to read more, the Washington Post article is one of the best articles that explains this.
Really, Apple was a bit naughty doing this, but I forgive them. Am just thankful the tech boffins cottoned on to this little hiccup before I managed to use up all my mobile data! Phew!
Yellywelly 