What uses texts and what uses data on messages (iphone 4s)

I don't use Tracfone, but I believe I can answer most of your questions based on general usage.

1. The carrier cannot restrict you from connecting to any wi-fi.
2. When connected to wi-fi, iMessage would not use your data. iMessage does not use text.
3. If you are not connected to wi-fi, FaceTime would use data, and it would only work on cellular if the carrier supports it. That you would have to ask Tracfone.
4. If you are connected to wi-fi, FaceTime would not use anything connected to Tracfone, that would be your wi-fi.

I'm considering getting a plan with Tracfone. Since you already have it, I was wondering if you could answer a few questions.

1. Can you still connect to wifi and not use data?

2. If you can and are connected to wifi, does iMessage use any texts or data?

3. Does FaceTime use data or phone minutes when not connected to wifi?

4. Same question but connected to wifi?

Thanks, I appreciate any answers you can give.

iMessage uses data, blue bubble.

SMS uses texting, green bubble.

MMS uses data, that is when you attach any type of media to a message.

SMS messages count against your text messaging plan(green). MMS messages may count against your messaging plan (green, these include picture messages, and 'group' text messages). MMS requires cellular data, but most carriers count it as a 'text' message these days. Check with your carrier. iMessages count agains your data plan, assuming you are not connected to WiFi when you send/receive them (blue).

Activating iMessage and FaceTime uses SMS messages. They may be international messages. If they are not processed properly by your carrier, you will not be able to activate them.

Tracfone is not a supported carrier for the iPhone at all. You may or may not be able to activate and use iMessage and FaceTime. You'll have to work with tracfone to resolve that.

gacl wrote:

Ok and also what If I am texting through my number through iMessage. Like I set it to start new convos from my number not my email, but the text is still blue. Is that gonna use data even though its through my number?

Yes. It will be blue if the recipient has an iPhone, and it will go as iMessage.

Compatible with does not equal "supported". They are not a supported carrier. They are not authorized to sell the iPhone. If you have problems with your service, Apple can't help you beyond the bare minimum.

I'm glad it's working for you, though.

As for how much data messages use, it should be very little. I've never tried to gauge it, as I've always had plans with plenty of data available. I never come close to using my data allotment.

Apple now supports tracfone and you don't have to use byop anymore. I have an iPhone 5s I bought through tracfone a couple months ago and it works fine.