Try these tips to troubleshoot problems with data connectivity on your smartphone or tablet, such as when browsing the web, or when using social media or other apps that require data.
Check if you can make and receive phone calls
If you’re also unable to make calls, you may be out of the coverage area. Use our coverage map to find your location and confirm that you have coverage.
Reset device network settings
If you can't connect to the Internet, or send or receive messages (email, text, picture or video), resetting the network settings may help. If you’re not sure how, Select your manufacturer below and follow the steps.
Important: when you reset network settings, the following will be cleared or restored to defaults:
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Cellular and Wi-Fi network settings (including saved networks and passwords)
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Bluetooth®
Open an app that uses data, such as Facebook or Instagram
If you are able to use the mobile browser but can’t use a particular app, follow the steps in the section >An app isn’t working on my smartphone or tablet.
Turn Wi-Fi off and on
Find out how
Turn airplane mode on and off
Find out how
Turn data off and on
Find out how
Confirm you haven’t used all of your data
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You can quickly check your data usage in the My Usage section of MyBell or the MyBell app.
- Unlimited Data plans: have you received a notification that you have used up the included maximum speed data? Once you receive the notification, your data speeds are slowed to a max of 512 Kbps – suitable for light web browsing, email and messaging – until the end of your billing cycle. You can upgrade to a plan with more data at maximum speeds.
Add funds to your prepaid account
Prepaid customers cannot send messages or use data if their account balance is $0 (or less). If you have a prepaid account, check that you have funds by dialling #321 from your mobile phone.
Ensure your network mode is set to global or automatic
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This option may differ depending on your device.
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Third-party power savers or LTE on/off applications may affect this setting.
Clear the browser temporary files and cookies
Install the latest software updates
Do the following to make sure your phone or tablet is up to date.
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Find the software version on your device.
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Visit bell.ca/softwareupdate and select your device to see what the current software version is.
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If the software version on your device does not match what is listed on our site,
update the software.
Back up and reset your device to factory defaults
The last thing you should try is to reset your phone or tablet to factory defaults.
Important: all of your media, data and settings will be erased. This action cannot be undone. If you have Dual SIM activated, your eSIM will be erased and you will need to replace it at a Bell store.
If the Device Protection feature is enabled on your device, it will stay enabled. After the reset, you will need to enter your Google or Apple account password to use the device again.
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Back up your phone or tablet using the suggested back up software from your manufacturer.
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Reset your device to factory defaults.
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iOS: Settings > General > Reset > Erase all contents and settings > Erase (device) > Erase (device)
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Android: Settings > General > Restart & reset > Factory data reset > Reset (device) > OK > Delete all > Reset