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Why do I need to have a credit card on file on my phone to update or get apps?

Was wondering why I need to have a credit card on file on my phone to update or get apps on my phone even free apps ?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone XS Max, iOS 13

Posted on Dec 19, 2019 2:06 PM

Reply
2 replies

Dec 20, 2019 9:15 AM in response to Lolabriones

The iTunes and App Stores generally require a verified payment method on file to make use of the store services including downloading free apps and updating apps.

There's a few reasons why it would require a verified payment method if it had not before.

  1. You had one and it stopped being verified, either because it expired or it was unable to be charged for something. you will need to verify it, and let the pending charge complete.
  2. If you had no payment method on file, but tried to buy something for which you did not have enough credit balance. In this case it will need some way to complete the charge.
  3. Your Apple ID is newly created and has not yet been used in the iTunes or App Store. It will generally require one to validate the Apple ID, unless it created in a very specific way to avoid this requirement.


Either way, you will now need to add a verifiable payment method. Once its verified, it can be removed.


See here: If you can't remove your last payment method or use no payment method with your Apple ID - Apple Support


Not about the subscriptions requirement, however, as I have an Apple TV+ active subscription, but have no credit card on file at all.

Why do I need to have a credit card on file on my phone to update or get apps?

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