The data saving feature kicks in by restricting photo pre-load and video pre-load. Instagram will not automatically download the video in high resolution, until and unless the user chooses to do so. The data saver feature on Instagram will not only help you save data but also gain control over media on your timeline. It is worth noting that images will download much faster. This is because the bandwidth will not be shared to download all the photos on the timeline. The data saving feature is a savior when it comes to countries with slower internet speed. Instagram has currently restricted data saving feature to India, however, the company has scheduled a global roll out in the coming days.
How to activate data saver feature on Instagram?
Activating the data saving feature on Instagram seems to be pretty easy. All you need to do is head over to Settings>Account>Cellular Data Use. Toggle on Use Less Data. Now you will get three options, Never, WiFi Only, and Cellular+WiFi.
Never: Instagram will never show you high-resolution media. WiFi Only: Instagram will only show you high-resolution media if your device is connected to WiFi Cellular+WiFi: Instagram will always show you high-resolution media.
Manish Chopra, Director, and Head of Partnerships, Facebook India was quoted as follows