How To Download Free Apps On Iphone Without A Credit Card

apple id login screen

Apple

What if you want an Apple ID but plan to never pay for a single thing from Apple through that ID? Apple makes that possible, though it's not a highlighted method, since it's frequently the case that you will pay Apple for a service or for software.

If you don't have an Apple ID account or want to set up a fresh one

You can create an Apple ID via the App Store in both iOS/iPadOS and macOS.

In iOS and iPadOS:

If you have an existing Apple ID account you don't want to use, log out: go to Settings > account name > Media & Purchases and tap Sign Out .
Launch the App Store.
Find an app you can download at no cost. Such apps will have a Get button. Tap Get .
The App Store prompts you for an Apple ID. Tap Create New Apple ID .
When prompted for a payment method, select None .
Follow the remaining steps to validate your account.

In macOS:

Launch the App Store.
If you have an existing Apple ID account you don't want to use, choose Store > Sign Out .
Find an app you can download at no cost. Such apps will have a Get button. Click Get.
In the Apple ID dialog that appears, click Create Apple ID .
Follow prompts. At the point where you're asked for a payment method, select None .
Follow the remaining steps to validate your account.

If you have an existing Apple ID

You can remove payment methods from existing Apple ID accounts in some cases. Apple requires a payment method on file if you are the family organizer for a Family Sharing group, and for accounts set up for children under 13.

In iOS and iPadOS:

Go to Settings > account name > Payment & Shipping.
Tap the Edit button.
Tap the remove (minus in a red circle) button for each method.
Tap Done.

In macOS:

Launch the App Store.
Choose Store > View My Account and then click View Information.
Click Manage Payments.
Click Edit next a payment method and click Remove. Repeat for each payment method.

This Mac 911 article is in response to a question submitted by Macworld reader Nancy.

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