Docomo’s data speed limit can be lifted immediately by purchasing a paid data add-on option. Even if you do not take any action, the speed limit will be automatically reset to normal speed at 0:00 AM on the 1st of the following month. In this article, we explain the specific steps to lift the limit immediately, the additional fees, tips to survive the speed limit until the end of the month, and preventive measures.
- Docomo’s speed limit is automatically lifted at 0:00 AM on the 1st of the following month.
- To lift it immediately, you can purchase additional data for 1,100 JPY per 1GB.
- During the restriction, utilizing d-WiFi or lowering video quality helps save data.
- If you frequently hit the limit, switching to ahamo or a larger data plan is recommended.
- Purchased data add-ons are valid until the end of the following month.
When Will Docomo’s Speed Limit Reset?
Docomo’s speed limit is designed to be automatically lifted when the month changes. Here are the details regarding the automatic reset timing and system processing time.
| Item | Reset Criteria |
|---|---|
| Automatic Reset Date/Time | 0:00 AM on the 1st of the following month |
| System Processing Time | Processed sequentially after 0:00 AM (takes a few minutes to a few hours) |
Automatic Reset at 0:00 AM on the 1st of the Next Month
The available data amount of your contract plan is reset on the 1st of every month, and the speed limit is automatically lifted at the same time. Since Docomo calculates data usage from the 1st to the last day of each month, there is no need to apply for reset. If you get restricted at the end of the month, simply waiting for the 1st of the next month will restore high-speed communication without any extra fees.
A Delay of a Few Hours May Occur Due to Sequential Processing
Although the speed limit is lifted after 0:00 AM on the 1st of the following month, it may not return to normal speed exactly at 0:00 AM. If the speed does not recover after waiting for a while, restarting your device can be effective. If it still does not improve, check your remaining data and speed limit status on My docomo.
2 Steps to Lift the Limit Immediately
If you cannot wait until the next month and want to restore high-speed communication immediately, you can purchase additional options from Docomo. Here are the features of the two methods: on-demand purchase and automatic addition.
| Option Name | Features & Fees |
|---|---|
| 1GB Add-on Option | Purchase in 1GB increments (1,100 JPY) as needed |
| Speed Mode | Automatically adds data up to a set limit (1,100 JPY/1GB) |
Add 1GB via My docomo
By logging into “My docomo” on the website or app, you can add high-speed data in 1GB increments. The fee is 1,100 JPY (tax included) per 1GB, and the restriction is lifted within a few minutes after the procedure is completed. This is suitable for those who want to purchase manually only when necessary to prevent overusing data.
Set Up 128kbps Speed Limit Release
If you want to automatically add data when you run out, setting up “Speed Mode” in advance is helpful. By setting a limit from 1GB to 10GB beforehand, you can save the trouble of applying manually every time a limit is reached. While it keeps your connection fast, it is important to manage usage to avoid unexpected high charges.
How to Survive During the Speed Limit
If you want to get through the end of the month without paying extra fees, you can reduce data consumption by adjusting your communication environment and app settings. Here are three effective methods.
| Method | Expected Effect |
|---|---|
| Use d-WiFi | Docomo users can connect to high-speed Wi-Fi for free |
| Tethering | Share data from family members or a secondary device |
| Adjust App Quality | Significantly reduce data usage on video and SNS apps |
Connect to Free Spots such as d-WiFi
Docomo users can use “d-WiFi” installed in cafes, convenience stores, and stations for free. If you are a d-point club member and have a Docomo line contract, you can connect to high-speed internet without extra fees after a simple initial setup. When you need heavy data communication outdoors, utilizing these spots will help you save data.
Get Connection via Tethering
If your family’s smartphone or your own mobile router has spare data, you can share their connection using the tethering function. By connecting via Wi-Fi, even a restricted device can browse the web and work using the host device’s high-speed connection.
Lower Video Quality to Reduce Load
On video streaming services like YouTube or SNS apps, change the playback quality to standard or low quality (360p or lower). Even under the 128kbps speed limit, low-quality videos or text-based web pages may still load. Simply turning off high-definition playback can reduce buffering and loading errors.
Tips to Prevent Speed Limits
If you hit the speed limit almost every month, you need to review your contract details and device settings. Here are preventive measures for a fundamental solution.
| Review Item | Specific Preventive Measure |
|---|---|
| Change Plan | Switch to ahamo or eximo (large data plans) |
| Install Home Internet | Use home Wi-Fi to reduce mobile data consumption to zero |
| Adjust Phone Settings | Turn off background app refresh and auto-sync |
Switch to Large Data Plans like ahamo
If you frequently add data on a small-capacity plan, switching to “ahamo,” which offers 30GB for 2,970 JPY (tax included) per month, is more economical. Purchasing the 1GB add-on twice a month (2,200 JPY) makes the total cost almost equal to a larger plan. Checking your monthly data usage and choosing the right plan is the first step to saving money.
Get Fiber Optic or Home Router at Home
If you use your smartphone a lot at home, installing “Docomo Hikari” or the contract-free “home 5G” to set up a Wi-Fi environment is highly recommended. By shifting all data usage at home to the fixed line, you can minimize your mobile data plan.
Restrict Background Data Communication
From your smartphone settings, stop “Background App Refresh” and automatic cloud backups. Even when you are not actively using your phone, data is consumed by SNS timeline updates and automatic photo syncing. Switching settings to allow syncing only when connected to Wi-Fi can prevent wasted data.
Frequently Asked Questions About Docomo Speed Limit
Here are common questions regarding purchasing data add-ons and lifting speed limits.
| Question | Answer & Notes |
|---|---|
| Data Roll-over | Purchased data is valid until the end of the following month |
| Payment Method | Billed together with the next month’s phone bill |
| Activation Time | Usually takes a few minutes to 15 minutes after purchase |
Purchased Data is Valid Until the End of the Next Month
The data capacity purchased through the 1GB Add-on Option is valid until the end of the month following the purchase month. Purchased data is consumed before your monthly plan’s data. However, please note that if you change your plan, it might expire at the end of the current month, so check your plan terms.
Charges are Combined with Your Monthly Bill
The cost of the data add-on option is billed together with your monthly basic charge and call charges in the next month. You do not need to pay by credit card on the spot. While it is convenient, be careful not to over-purchase, as it can lead to a high bill next month.
Lifting the Limit Takes a Few Minutes
After completing the purchase on My docomo, it takes from a few minutes to about 15 minutes for the communication speed to return to high speed. If the speed does not change immediately, wait a moment or restart your device to force it to reconnect to the network.
