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iOS 9: App Store requires password for free download

Since updating to iOS 9, I get prompted to enter my iTunes password to update apps or download free apps. I have it set to not require passwords for free apps, and I am logged into the App Store

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I have tried logging out and back in a number of times, but it doesn't seem to do anything. Does anyone else have this issue?

iPhone 5c, iOS 9

Posted on Sep 20, 2015 11:56 AM

Reply
64 replies

Aug 23, 2017 10:51 AM in response to Ralph_from_the_future

Interesting observation, and it's logical on Apple's part. If your phone doesn't have a passcode anyone who finds or steals it has access to your entire Apple ID and its related accounts, as well as your contacts, calendar, messages, photos, Facetime, Notes, all of the websites you have visited, reminders. And access to your iTunes account, where they could make purchases of music and apps, and in-app purchases. At least the last is safe. You also can't use Apple Pay on a phone with no passcode (can't even set it up).

Sep 20, 2015 12:29 PM in response to Lawrence Finch

It will download the app or update as expected. I get prompted with this pop up every time:

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However, I am already signed into iTunes/App Store:

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As shown in my previous screenshot, my settings are to allow free downloads without a password. I didn't change anything other than to upgrade to iOS 9. Is this a bug or am I the only one with this issue?

Sep 20, 2015 12:39 PM in response to Aaron622

Try a forced restart. Hold down on the sleep and home buttons at the same time for about 10-20 seconds until the Apple logo appears on the screen.


Something else to try is to go to Settings>General>Reset>Reset All Settings. No data is lost, but you will have to enter all of your device's settings again. That includes WiFi passwords. This action returns the iPad's settings to default, out of the box condition. The iPad will also reboot on its own.

Sep 22, 2015 4:58 AM in response to Aaron622

Did you ever figure this out? Both mine and my Wife's 5s are doing this, were fine before iOS9. So far I've tried:

- Toggling Free Downloads Require Password

- Turning off Restrictions and toggling the above

- Signing in & out of the App Store
- Reboots in conjunction with the above
- Reset All Settings - killed the phone, got stuck on Apple logo
- Restoring again to iOS9 using my 8.4 backup (because of the above)
- Reviewing payment info


BTW occurs on all free downloads - free apps, updates + previously purchased item.

iOS 9: App Store requires password for free download

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