How to Fix OneNote Metered Connection Warning on Mac and iPhone
Question details
The user wants to disable the persistent metered-connection warning and SyncError in OneNote without interrupting synchronization over cellular data or a mobile hotspot.

- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- macOS and iOS
- Scenario
- Synchronizing OneNote notebooks while connected to an iPhone cellular hotspot or using mobile data on an iOS device.
- Observed behavior
- OneNote repeatedly displays a metered-connection warning or SyncError notification, even though the notes continue to synchronize successfully in the background.
Verify that your iPhone hotspot or cellular data plan has a sufficient data allowance, as continuous background synchronization can consume significant mobile bandwidth.
Manage Cellular Data Settings for OneNote on iPhone
Disable cellular data access for OneNote on your iPhone to stop the metered connection warnings, though this will pause syncing until connected to Wi-Fi.
Currently, Microsoft OneNote does not offer a native toggle on macOS or iOS to simply hide the metered connection warning while keeping cellular sync active. The only system-level workaround on iOS is to restrict the app's cellular data usage entirely.
Unlock your iPhone, locate the Settings app on your home screen, and tap to open it.
Scroll down and tap on 'Cellular' (or 'Mobile Data', depending on your region) to view your data usage and app permissions.
Scroll through the list of applications until you find OneNote. Toggle the switch next to it to the 'Off' position.

Submit a Feature Request to Microsoft
Since there is no built-in solution to hide the warning while maintaining sync, providing direct feedback to Microsoft is the best way to request this feature.
Experience Seamless Syncing with WPS Office
Tired of persistent sync errors, unmanageable warnings, and limited settings in Microsoft Office? Switch to WPS Office for a lightweight, highly compatible alternative that offers seamless document synchronization across all your Mac and iOS devices without unnecessary interruptions.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website or the App Store and download the free version for your Mac or iOS device.
- 2. Install and Launch: Follow the standard on-screen instructions to install the software, then launch the application from your desktop or home screen.
- 3. Enable Cloud Sync: Sign in to your free WPS account to instantly enable cross-device synchronization and access your documents anywhere without intrusive metered connection warnings.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneNote constantly show a metered connection warning?
OneNote detects when your device is connected to a cellular network or a mobile hotspot. It displays this warning to alert you that background syncing is occurring, which could potentially result in unexpected data charges from your mobile carrier.
Can I disable the metered connection warning on macOS?
Currently, Microsoft OneNote for Mac does not include a native settings toggle to disable this specific notification while you are tethered to a mobile hotspot.
Will disabling cellular data for OneNote delete my offline notes?
No. Disabling cellular data access for OneNote in your iPhone settings only pauses remote synchronization. Your locally saved notes remain entirely safe and will automatically sync to the cloud the next time you connect to a standard Wi-Fi network.




