Google play services data usage and push notification, can I get some help?

[AC Question]

Google play services data usage and push notification

Hi all, i am a recent convert from Apple products (2 weeks old Android user). I am getting used to the platform and am liking it.

However here in australia, data plans are expensive. With only 500mb I am very cautious of my usage. I have made most apps to have background data disabled. I understand that Google Service (in my HTC it states that it runs a few services included Google Play Services) is required to have background data enabled in order to receive push notificiations.

However, on top of the data used for push notifications, there seems to be a lot more that is being used (i have enabled apps to only update on wifi). In addition because my provider charges per mb increment, my data usage is running out fast.

I have never had such high usage when using Apple products. It seems like the same data is utilised twice, once in the app i.e. whatsapp/viber and once in Google Play Services. It is like a double whammy.

Is there a way to restrict background data on google services whilst ensuring push notification is sent? Failing which I may have to consider Windows phone which, like Android, also appears on low cost phones.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[AlphaTango414]

Re: Google play services data usage and push notification

Restricting BG data for Google Services will only hinder push notifications for Google Apps.

I'd suggest giving it a try for a day or two with the BG services restricted.