What Is Airplane Mode on a Cellphone?

Airplane mode on a cellphone turns off all connection communications, including mobile connections, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

On some phones, it even turns off the phone’s GPS function.

A person enabling Airplan Mode on their smartphone on a plane.

Techa Tungateja / Getty Images

What Does Airplane Mode Do?

Because Airplane Mode turns off wireless communication signals, it also has some additional benefits.

Because Airplane mode turns off hardware signals, it can also increase your battery life.

Airplane Mode can be a lifesaver if you’re a parent with small children.

Can You Use Wi-Fi in Airplane Mode?

Similarly, Bluetooth may be re-enabled separately from the other functions of Airplane Mode.

Not all airlines will allow you touse Bluetooth while in flight.