Payment info
Why are the apps on the App Store asking for a payment method before it downloads to my phone. I do not want to provide that info.
iPhone 14, iOS 17
A valid payment method is needed to download apps from the App Store even if they are free. If they are free, you will not be charged.
Apple Support articles specifically use the phrase "You might need to have a valid payment method on file" with problems downloading apps, but if are seeing a message asking for payment information, then you will need to provide it.