How Can I Resolve Slow Data Speed on My EE Mobile While Using Fitness Apps?

[SverreLeofstan]

Hey everyone,

I’ve been using EE as my mobile network provider for quite some time now, and overall, I've been happy with their service. But lately, I’ve noticed something frustrating: my mobile data speed seems to slow down significantly whenever I’m out using fitness-related apps, especially during my outdoor runs. I usually go for runs with my phone because I like to track my route and other metrics, but it seems like once the app kicks in and starts pulling data for the GPS, music streaming, or other real-time updates, my connection starts to lag. It’s not just about the fitness app; even other apps like social media or browsing suddenly become sluggish.

I’ve tried a few things to see if it helps, like switching off other apps in the background to ensure there’s no unnecessary data usage, but that hasn’t really made a noticeable difference. I’ve also checked my data allowance, and I’m nowhere near my cap, so I doubt it’s a throttling issue. My phone isn’t that old either, so I don’t think it's a hardware issue. The slowdown seems to happen more when I’m moving around in different areas (maybe because of switching between cell towers?), but it’s particularly annoying when I’m relying on real-time data for my running tracker.

I’m not a super technical person, but I feel like this could be a network issue? It’s odd because I’ve used other networks in the past, and while there were occasional hiccups, the drop in speed was never this consistent. I’m also wondering if anyone else has had this issue with EE, especially while using GPS or location-based services? Does EE’s network prioritize certain types of data over others, or is it common for mobile data to slow down when moving between different zones?

I was positively inspired by my running tracker, which has really helped me stay motivated by showing detailed data about my performance. A running tracker, often referred to as an "online running speed and distance monitor," uses GPS and data connectivity to provide real-time information about your pace, distance covered, and even elevation during a run.

However, it gets frustrating when the app can't update in real-time because of the network lag. Sometimes, I even lose GPS signal altogether, and I’ve noticed that the app fails to record parts of my route, which makes it difficult to track my progress accurately. It’s one of the reasons I’m leaning towards thinking that the issue might be with EE’s network more than anything else.

I guess I’m curious whether it’s something I can fix on my end or if it’s just a limitation of the mobile network. Has anyone here tried using EE’s tech support for similar issues? If so, did they give you any useful advice? I’ve thought about reaching out, but I wanted to get some community input first to see if there’s something simple I’m missing.

I’ve also noticed that the problem gets worse when I’m running in more rural areas. In the city, things tend to work a bit better, but even then, there’s still an occasional slowdown. Do you think this could be a coverage issue? I’ve checked EE’s coverage map, and it says my area should have solid 4G, but it just doesn’t feel like that’s the case when I’m actually out using it.

Additionally, I wonder if switching to a different plan might help with data speed consistency? I’m currently on one of EE’s standard SIM-only deals with a decent amount of data, but I’ve read that some plans may prioritize different types of network traffic. Is that true? And would switching to a different plan or even upgrading to 5G make a difference? I’m not sure how that works when it comes to prioritizing data for different activities like streaming, fitness apps, and general browsing.

Lastly, I’m considering using Wi-Fi where possible, but obviously, that’s not always an option when I’m out on a run. I have Wi-Fi Calling enabled, but I’m not sure if that’s relevant to data usage, and it hasn’t really improved things while I’m moving around outdoors.

If anyone has any tips or advice, I’d really appreciate it! Maybe you’ve had a similar experience and found a fix, or perhaps you can share some insights on what might be causing this? I’d love to get your thoughts!

Thanks so much!

[Ali_A]

Hi @SverreLeofstan 

Welcome to the EE Community

You can check coverage and network status in the different areas you have been running at EE coverage Checker , where you can also report any issues you are facing as well as sign up for updates on any known issues that may be going on. 

On a side point- GPS doesn't use any mobile network for signal- this is obtained from the public global satellites. If your GPS is failing to pick up a location you may have an issue with your device. 

Most tracking apps will keep a record of your location movements in the phone even if you don't have a network signal in place. It will then be available for upload to the online sites once you have network/internet signal. Intermittent loss of mobile signal wouldn't necessarily be the cause of your missing progress information. 

It could be that the tracking app is using too much processing power from your phone, if so that may just be a glitch. Have you tried uninstalling and reinstalling the tracking app you use? 

If it's still an issue it may be worth backing up your device and trying a full factory reset to clear any bugs or glitches that may have developed in the phone. 

Ali