Kurtosis12 wrote:
Also, you need a payment method even if the apps are free.
A common oversimplification by even some long term contributors here. I download and update free apps regularly and I have never had a payment method on my account. Maybe I am grandfathered into something with my 20 year old account but "needing" does not apply to everybody, nor even everybody in all situations. ;-)
Of course I can't try this with my account but it is even possible that if you are being asked for a payment method, Apple may only want to see it briefly unless it is something that requires a payment method always be present.
Ref.:
Add a payment method to your Apple Account - Apple Support
"To make purchases from the App Store and use subscriptions like iCloud+ and Apple Music, you need at least one payment method on file." Note that there may be a differences between “purchasing” an app for money, and simply “getting” one for free. I get free ones with no payment method.
If you can’t download or update apps on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
- "You might need to have a payment method on file, even if the app that you want to download is free."
If you can’t download or update apps on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
- If you have any active subscriptions, you must have at least one payment method on file other than Apple ID credit.
- You might not be able to remove a payment method if you have a balance due.
Sign in to your Apple Account on the web or in your device settings - Apple Support
- "When you sign in to the App Store and other media services for the first time, you might need to add a credit card or other payment information."
How apps, content, and subscriptions from Apple are billed - Apple Support
- You can’t charge gifts to your Apple ID balance. If you send a gift or gift card, your primary payment method is charged.
- Some subscriptions might not be charged to your Apple ID balance.
What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance - Apple Support
"Some purchases might require that you have a credit card on file, even if you use your Apple Account balance to make the purchase."
