SAVE DATA FOR EMERGENCIES WITH GOOGLE'S DATALLY

Google's Datally is an app that saves data for emergencies, however, it is for Android users only.

Datally has two new features which it says can save even more data for users. Google's Datally was first introduced to SA last November, and other emerging markets a few months before that, as a way to help data-conscious users monitor their mobile data usage and see what can save it, as well as find public Wi-Fi hotspots.

The new feature called emergency bank and bedtime mode promise to make users always have data when they need it most and do not use it unnecessarily when sleeping.

"Emergency bank saves some of your data so you have it protected for later, just in case you need it," says Mengling Li, Google software engineer for 'the next billion users' team.

"Enter your balance and how much data you'd like to save for emergencies, and Datally will automatically block your apps from using data once you reach your emergency data allowance. You decide when and how to use your emergency bank data; for example, to send that urgent message or schedule a ride home."

The Bedtime mode is meant to prevent apps updating or working in the background while the smartphone is not actually in use. "Check your data balance before bed, then check again when you wake up. It should be the same, shouldn't it?" says Li.

"Too often, apps drain your data overnight. Bedtime mode turns off all of your phone's data usage at night. Choose your bedtime and wake-up time, and Datally makes sure your data isn't draining while you're dozing."

In SA, the consumer-driven #DataMustFall campaign is pressuring government and regulators to bring local data prices down. While Google cannot promise to lower the price, it hopes this app will help Android users monitor, save and gain control of their data.

With Google's Datally users can also see how much data they used in the last hour, day, week or even month, and they can see exactly which apps used the most data. After some use, the app will give users personalised recommendations on where they can save.