How much data does PHapp® use?

Efficient design using 5-15 MB per month on average

PHapp is designed to be data-efficient while delivering timely, important information.

Typical Data Usage

Under normal conditions:

  • Average monthly usage: 5-15 MB per month
  • Initial download: Approximately 25-40 MB (one-time)
  • Updates: 5-10 MB per update
  • Per alert: Less than 100 KB for most alerts

What Uses Data

PHapp uses data for:

  • Receiving new alerts and updates
  • Syncing alert status changes
  • Loading images or maps in alerts (if included)
  • Updating location information
  • Refreshing agency data feeds

Data-Saving Features

PHapp includes several data-saving features:

  • Text-first design: Alerts are primarily text-based, not media-heavy
  • Efficient syncing: Updates only when necessary
  • Cached content: Previously loaded information is stored locally

Minimizing Data Usage

PHapp does not have its own data-saving settings. To reduce data use:

  1. Use your phone’s settings to limit PHapp’s cellular or background data
  2. Rely more on SMS text alerts

Restricting PHapp’s data can delay or block new alerts.

SMS Data Usage

Important note: SMS text alerts do not count against PHapp's data usage—they use your device's standard messaging service.