[itunes link=”http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/onavo/id423545287?mt=8&uo=4″ title=”onavo” text=”Onavo”] is a new app for iPhone that aims to shrink your mobile data consumption. The app works by compressing the data usage from email refreshes, web browsing and other apps similar to Research in Motion’s renowned method of compressing BlackBerry’s data.
Following installation of a configuration profile (proxy) which allows the data to be redirected through Onavo’s servers, you’ll be able to access some insights into your data usage. You can then choose to compress the data, which will send less data to the operator (your carrier), which is considered less consumption. Onavo says it uses a variety of compression techniques, one example being the diminishing of image quality.
Despite the irritating process of installing the proxy, I found the app to be very easy to use and intuitive. It also works, but the results are marginal if you use Wi-Fi often. If you’re consistently on your carrier’s 3G connection, you will get positive results with Onavo’s compression techniques, which could easily lead to a lower phone bill.
Also, the app does not currently support streaming services such as YouTube or VoIP. However, according to a recent press release, Onavo’s working on getting support for popular streams.
If you’re concerned about privacy, this app may not be for you. Onavo makes a good case as to how they take your privacy very seriously, but there’s no getting around the stubborn fact that your data (Internet traffic) is delivered to your carrier via an unaccountable third party server.
Onavo will be [itunes link=”http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/onavo/id423545287?mt=8&uo=4″ title=”onavo” text=”free in the App Store”] for a limited time, with the expectation of a price increase (but no ads) in the near future.
via The Telegraph
