I don’t want to add a payment method

You can download free apps, but you need to have a payment method on file, even if the app you want to download is free.

As long as you only download free apps, it costs nothing.

Then your payment method remains intact.

If you are going to download a free app, there is a possibility to purchase the 'better' version, for example from a free version to pro version.

But that is not mandatory.

However, with the free version there is an advertisement.

Use your Apple ID balance as default payment, then it is up to you whether you use it or not.

Free apps has also In-app pruchase.

Your payment method is actually a kind of deposit, if you buy something, it will be charged.

See -> Payment methods you can use with your Apple ID

Payment methods you can use with your Apple ID – Apple Support (UK)

You can also use your Apple ID balance as payment method: Add money to your Apple ID balance

Add money to your Apple ID balance – Apple Support (UK)

What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple ID balance

What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance – Apple Support (UK)

The short answer. Apple Policy. My opinion......it won't change.