When Apple announced its new Wi-Fi Assist feature with iOS 9, it sparked plenty of controversy.
In response, the Cupertino-based tech giant has released a support page clarifying exactly how the feature works.
“With Wi-Fi Assist, you can stay connected to the internet even if you have a poor Wi-Fi connection,” explains Apple. “Because you’ll stay connected to the internet over cellular when you have a poor Wi-Fi connection, you might use more cellular data.”
The original complaints began because users on contracts with data-caps were concerned that being forced off Wi-Fi could see them hit with over-usage charges.
It caused especial concern because Apple activates the feature by default on iOS 9 devices.
The new page clarifies three key details:
- Wi-Fi Assist won’t automatically switch to cellular if you’re data roaming
- Wi-Fi Assist only works when you have apps running in the foreground. It doesn’t activate with background download of content
- Wi-Fi doesn’t activate with certain third-party apps that stream audio or video, or download attachments, like an e-mail app, as they might use large amounts of data
Apple also points out that the Wi-Fi Assist feature is completely optional, although you’ll need to turn it off in the settings yourself.
You’ll find that option by heading into Settings > Cellular, and then scrolling down to Wi-Fi Assist.
Related: iPhone 6S review
Wi-Fi Assist is available on any Apple device running iOS 9 or later, except for the following: iPhone 4S, iPad 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (3rd-gen) Wi-Fi + Cellular, and iPad Mini (1st-gen) Wi-Fi + Cellular.
Do you think Apple should still keep the feature enabled by default? Let us know in the comments.
Check out our iOS 9 features video below:
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.