'Data Saver' mode is a new feature that lets you easily lock down certain apps' data consumption when you're away from Wifi.
While Android has long been able to restrict certain apps' access to background data on a cellular connection, the Developer Preview adds a new feature that makes it easier to cut down on your data consumption when necessary.
"Data Saver" is a new mode that can be toggled in quick settings under the notification shade, or found under Settings > Data usage. When enabled, apps that aren't whitelisted are prevented from using cellular data in the background, and according to Google's developer documentation apps will also be signaled to consume less data when they're actively being used.
Pick and choose which apps get unrestricted data access in Data Saver mode.
When Data Saver is turned on, Android displays a "pause" icon in the status bar. You'll also see a message at the top of the Settings app in informing you that it's enabled.
The settings menu for Data Saver lets you control which apps get to use "unrestricted" data when this mode is enabled — by default, the only whitelisted app is , which makes sense given the importance of this low-level app.
Generous cellular data bundles are something many in the West take for granted, however this new Android feature could be a big deal in some developing markets, where data quotas may be more restrictive. Those that regularly travel to foreign soils may also benefit from Data Saver feature, as background usage can quickly eat through precious roaming data allowances.
As with all features in the current Developer Preview, it's worth remembering that Data Saver may change (or even disappear entirely) between now and the final release. Keep watching for more on the next version of Android as the summer release window approaches.
The Android N Developer Preview is just that — a developer preview. It is not intended for daily use. That doesn't mean it's not cool, and that you shouldn't poke around. But know that things will break. Tread carefully. (And have fun!)
