By default, Apple requires you to authenticate every single download from the App Store using Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password. While this is a crucial security measure to prevent accidental purchases or unauthorized in-app billing, it can become incredibly tedious when you are setting up a new iPhone or simply trying to download a free utility app. If you are frustrated by the constant prompts, you can configure your iPhone to allow the downloading of free applications without requiring a password every single time.
Changing the App Store Password Settings
This setting must be changed within the main iOS Settings app, specifically under the Media & Purchases section of your Apple ID profile.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name (your Apple ID profile banner) at the very top of the Settings menu.
- Tap on Media & Purchases.
- A pop-up menu will appear from the bottom of the screen. Select Password Settings.
- Look under the “Free Downloads” section. You will see a toggle switch labelled Require Password.
- Tap the toggle to turn it off (the switch will turn from green to grey).
Note: If you have Face ID or Touch ID enabled for App Store purchases, the “Password Settings” option might be hidden or greyed out. You must first go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and toggle off “iTunes & App Store” before you can change the free download password requirement.
What This Actually Changes
Disabling this setting only affects applications that are completely free to download initially.
If you attempt to purchase a paid app, or if you try to authorize an in-app purchase within a free app (like a subscription or a virtual currency pack), iOS will still strictly require Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password to process the financial transaction. This ensures your credit card remains completely secure, while significantly speeding up the process of trying out free software.