I’m about to head off for the “land down under” (Australia) and I want to make sure I don’t get pummeled with a huge phone bill upon my return. Why would I have a huge bill? Well, with the Galaxy S4 (and any smartphone for that matter) all use quite a bit of data. Even when you aren’t actively using the phone, there is a lot of chatter taking place in the background (software updates, weather applications, stock widgets, pushes, pulls, etc). If you are not within range of a Wifi hotspot, then all that data is transmitted across the mobile network(s), and each Kb of data downloaded or uploaded costs money (especially if on international travel and you data plan does not support it).
You might be thinking, why not leave the phone at home? Well, I need it while I’m in the United States so I can call family to come pick me up from the airport, or to kill some time during layovers. I also want it while abroad so I can use it in Wifi hotspots to send email (with photos) back home or call family with Skype/Tango.
So, how can I turn off data and only use wifi on my phone? In other words, how do I turn my Galaxy S4 into a simple Wifi only device?
Option #1
Airplane Mode (On): This will turn off everything (all radios) including data, phone and Wifi. Not exactly what I want, because I do want Wifi. So this won’t work.
Option #2
Data Roaming (unchecked) + Mobile Data (unchecked): This will turn off all mobile data, but leave Wifi on and allow phone calls to be placed. Not exactly what I want because if someone calls and I answer, I will get charged a nasty per minute rate. But, this would work. I just have to make sure I don’t accept or place any calls on accident (Ever receive one those 5 minute voice mails from someone that sounds like their phone is in their pocket — I’ve done it).
Option #3
Airplane Mode (On) + Wifi (On): I can activate Airplane Mode and then also turn Wifi on. I think this will work. This will prevent data networks and also prevent phone calls, but it will allow a Wifi connection. I’m going with this option. I hope it works, because I’ll be a bit pissed if I get charged a crap ton of money.
