hmw460

Q: my iPad uses cell instead of available wifi?

My iPad uses my Sprint Cell connection even when my wifi is available. I went to settings/cellular data and scrolled in the right-hand column all the way to the bottom and saw "wifi assist". I used a lot of my allowance of data usage before I found this item and turned it off. When did it appear? I never heard of it before and it sounds like a wicked way for cell providers to make more money. 

 

<Edited by Host>

iPad, null

Posted on Jan 14, 2016 11:05 AM

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Q: my iPad uses cell instead of available wifi?

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  • by ChrisJ4203,

    ChrisJ4203 ChrisJ4203 Jan 14, 2016 11:08 AM in response to hmw460
    Level 9 (58,825 points)
    iPhone
    Jan 14, 2016 11:08 AM in response to hmw460

    Wi-Fi assist was added a couple of iOS updates ago. When on, it only relies on cellular data if there is poor Wi-Fi signal. I've not experienced any issues with it on my phone or iPad, but others have reported some issues at times. You can, as you have done, turn it off. I'm not sure it is a money maker as you infer, but I've read that in iOS 9.3 it is supposed to report the amount of data used if you do have it active. I would double-check your Wi-Fi when you believe it was activated, and make sure you have a solid connection and signal.

  • by ShagCA,Helpful

    ShagCA ShagCA Jan 14, 2016 11:54 AM in response to hmw460
    Level 4 (2,235 points)
    iPad
    Jan 14, 2016 11:54 AM in response to hmw460

    hmw460 wrote:

     

    My iPad uses my Sprint Cell connection even when my wifi is available. I went to settings/cellular data and scrolled in the right-hand column all the way to the bottom and saw "wifi assist". I used a lot of my allowance of data usage before I found this item and turned it off. When did it appear? I never heard of it before and it sounds like a wicked way for cell providers to make more money. 

     

    <Edited by Host>

    iOS 9

    About Wi-Fi Assist - Apple Support