Why Does Apple Want My Credit Card for Free Apps?

When creating an account, select
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Although Apple does request your credit card information when you create an Apple ID or try to download a free app, it's not actually a requirement. If you don't yet have an Apple ID for downloading apps, you can create one without a credit card. If you already have an Apple ID, you can remove your credit card information.

1 New Apple IDs

If you haven't downloaded apps on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch, you can create an Apple ID without a credit card. To do this, you have to first download a free app on an iOS device or in iTunes on your computer. After you tap or click the "Free" button on the app and then "Install," Apple prompts you to create an Apple ID. Enter the information as requested and when you're asked to select a payment method, select "None."

2 Removing Credit Card Information

To remove credit card information from your Apple ID, launch "Settings" on your iOS device and select "iTunes & App Store." Tap your Apple ID at the top of the list and select "View Apple ID." Enter your password when prompted, select "Payment Information," and then select "None." On iTunes on a computer, sign in with your Apple ID, click "Store," and then click "View Account." Click "Edit" beside the Payment Type and then select "None."

3 Disclaimer

Information in this article applies to Apple iOS devices with iOS 7 and iTunes 11. It may vary slightly or significantly with other versions or products.

A published author and professional speaker, David Weedmark has advised businesses and governments on technology, media and marketing for more than 20 years. He has taught computer science at Algonquin College, has started three successful businesses, and has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and magazines throughout Canada and the United States.

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