Background Data & Auto Sync

[gordonwd]

There are two settings for syncing: one is "Background data" which says apps "can sync .... at any time". The other is "Auto-sync" that says that apps can "sync automatically".

So what's the difference?? The descriptions seem to me to mean the same thing, and I haven't found anything that describes which combo is best: Background + Auto, Background only, or both off.

 

[buffaloparty]

It's a bit confusing but basically auto sync allows your accounts to sync to your phone at anytime. for example, syncing your Facebook contacts automatically would be included in this.

Background data is more general. Notice how you can't use auto sync when background data is unchecked? Background data allows apps to use data whenever they are not fully closed. That's why you get a notification when it's your turn on words with friends!

 

[gordonwd]

Thanks! I generally prefer to have apps such as email and the calendar to only sync when I have them open and tell them to (also to save battery & network usage). Some apps don't let you adjust the polling period and check way too often if left on automatic.

 

[expalpo]

To save battery I usually go with Background Data ‘On’ and Auto-sync ‘Off’… then use Synker Widgets to force sync specific accounts on demand.