1. Why use hotspot with eSIM?
When you travel, continuous network access is essential for maps, reservations and communication. The eSIM allows you to keep data on your mobile without worrying about physical cards, but sharing that connection with other devices is usually a rapid source of energy consumption. With this guide, you will learn how to use the hotspot efficiently and protect your phone's battery.
2. Basic configuration on iOS and Android
- iOS (iPhone 15 and later) – Go to Settings > Cellular Data > Personal Hotspot. Activate the option and, if you wish, change the password.
- Android (Samsung Galaxy S24, Google Pixel 9, etc.) – Access Settings > Networks and Internet > Wi-Fi hotspot and access point. Activate the Wi-Fi Access Point and configure security.
- Connect your laptop or tablet to the hotspot by entering the password and verify that the signal is stable.
3. Tricks to save battery on iOS
- Low Power Mode – Activate Settings > Battery > Low Power Mode before starting the hotspot. This limits background processes.
- Disables automatic brightness – Manually adjusts the brightness to a comfortable level to reduce display consumption.
- Limit notifications – In Settings > Notifications, disable those you don't need while sharing data.
- Disconnect non-essential apps – Close applications you do not use; In iOS 17, the Multitasking Manager allows you to quickly delete apps.
- Connect only necessary devices – Each additional device increases consumption. Keep only the essentials connected.
4. Tricks to save battery on Android
- Data saving mode – Activate Settings > Battery > Battery saving mode before using the hotspot.
- Disable automatic app updating – Go to Settings > Apps > Automatic updates and disable.
- Control location – In Settings > Privacy > Location, limit apps that use location when the hotspot is active.
- Optimizes the screen – Reduce brightness and activate night mode when possible.
- Disconnect Wi-Fi devices – When the hotspot is on, disable other Wi-Fi networks on your mobile to prevent the screen from constantly searching.
5. Comparative table: battery consumption when using hotspot in different scenarios
| Scenario | Approximate consumption (mAh/day) | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot active 4h with 2 devices (laptop + tablet) | 300mAh | Use low power mode and disconnect apps |
| Hotspot active 8h with 1 device (laptop) | 600mAh | Plan recharge at a cafe or hotel |
| 12h active hotspot with 3 devices (laptop, tablet, secondary mobile) | 900mAh | Prioritize the laptop connection and use public Wi-Fi when possible |
| Hotspot active 6h with 1 device (tablet) and Data saving mode | 250mAh | Excellent balance between connectivity and durability |
6. Smart hotspot use: when and how to share data
To maximize battery life, follow these steps:
- Connect only devices that really need data.
- Use the hotspot during off-peak hours on the network (for example, before 8am or after 10pm). In many countries, traffic is lighter at these times.
- If your destination offers free Wi-Fi, turn off the hotspot and switch to that network.
- On Android, enable the “ Use data only with Wi-Fi ” option so that apps do not consume data when the hotspot is active.
- On iOS, check Settings > Cellular data > Data usage to see which apps consume the most. Set limits if necessary.
⚠️ Warning: Using hotspot increases the heat of the device. If you notice that your mobile is getting hot, disconnect the devices or reduce the signal strength by setting a saving mode.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the hotspot with an eSIM on an iPhone without activating airplane mode?
Yes, the hotspot works as long as the mobile phone has coverage and the eSIM is active. Airplane mode disables all radios, so the hotspot will not operate.
What happens if my phone runs out while I'm using the hotspot?
The hotspot will continue to work on connected devices, but will not send data from the mobile. It is advisable to charge the phone on a charging base or use a portable charger.
How to know how much data I consume through the hotspot on Android?
In Settings > Networks and Internet > Mobile data > Data usage, you can filter by “Hotspot” and see the accumulated consumption.
Is it safe to share my connection with unknown devices?
Only share with trusted devices. Change your hotspot password regularly and disable the option when you don't need it.
Can I limit the hotspot speed to save battery?
Some devices allow you to set the signal quality to “Power Saving Mode” or “Limited Connection Quality”, which reduces consumption and battery.