Why you might want to disable App Store passwords

The App Store requires a password by default to prevent unauthorized purchases. Disabling this requirement means you won't need to enter your password every time you download a free app or make a purchase — but it also means anyone with access to your device can buy things without your permission.

Most people keep the password requirement on. But if you're the only person using your device, or you want to speed up downloads of free apps, you can turn it off. This guide covers how to do that on both iPhone and iPad.

Be aware: if you disable the password, you're removing a security layer. Anyone who picks up your device can spend money from your Apple account. If you have children using your device, use parental controls instead — they let you restrict purchases without disabling the password entirely.

Key Takeaways

  • Disabling the App Store password removes the security check that prevents unauthorized purchases on your device.
  • You can turn off the password requirement in Settings under your Apple ID, then Payments and Shipping.
  • If children use your device, use Screen Time and parental controls instead of disabling the password.
  • You can re-enable the password at any time by reversing the same steps.

How to disable the password on iPhone or iPad

Open the Settings app on your device. Tap your name at the top of the screen, then tap Password & Security. (On older iOS versions, this may be labeled iTunes & App Store instead.)

Scroll down and look for Require Password or Password Requirements. You'll see options like "Always Require", "Require After 15 Minutes", or "Never". Select Never to stop requiring a password for purchases and free downloads.

A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you're sure. Tap to confirm. The setting takes effect immediately — your next App Store download won't ask for a password.

What happens after you disable the password

Once the password is off, you can download free apps and make purchases without entering your Apple ID password or Face ID. This speeds up the process if you download apps frequently.

The change applies only to your device. If you sign into your Apple ID on another iPhone or iPad, that device will still require a password unless you disable it there too. Your Mac, Apple Watch, and other devices keep their own settings.

Your Apple ID password itself doesn't change — you'll still need it to sign into iCloud, change your account settings, or reset your device. Only the App Store purchase requirement is affected.

Using parental controls instead of disabling the password

If children or other family members use your device, don't disable the password. Instead, use Screen Time to restrict what they can do. This keeps your device secure while still controlling their access.

Open Settings, tap Screen Time, then Content & Privacy Restrictions. Turn on restrictions, then go to iTunes & App Store Purchases. You can set it to require your approval for any purchase, or block purchases entirely. This way, the password stays on for you, but family members can't spend money without permission.

How to turn the password back on

If you change your mind, re-enable the password the same way you turned it off. Go to Settings, tap your name, then Password & Security. Find Require Password and select Always Require or Require After 15 Minutes.

The "Require After 15 Minutes" option is a middle ground: you won't need a password for the first purchase, but if 15 minutes pass without a purchase, the next one will ask for your password. This catches most unauthorized purchases while keeping frequent downloaders from typing constantly.

What to do if you forgot your Apple ID password

If you disabled the password and later can't remember your Apple ID password, you'll need to reset it before you can make changes to your account or sign into other devices. Go to iforgot.apple.com on any computer or device, enter your Apple ID email, and follow the recovery steps.

You can also reset your password in Settings: go to your name, tap Password & Security, then Change Password. You'll need to verify your identity with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I disable the password for purchases but keep it for free downloads?

No. The setting controls both free and paid downloads together. When you set it to "Never Require", it applies to everything. If you want to restrict purchases specifically, use parental controls instead — they let you block paid downloads while allowing free ones.

Will disabling the password affect my iCloud or email login?

No. This setting only controls the App Store. Your Apple ID password for iCloud, email, and other services stays the same and remains required. You're only removing the purchase security check on this one device.

What if someone makes a purchase after I disable the password?

You can contact Apple Support to report the purchase and request a refund. Go to reportaproblem.apple.com, sign in with your Apple ID, find the purchase, and select "Report a Problem". Explain what happened and Apple will review it. Refunds are usually processed within a few business days, though Apple may deny the request if the purchase was clearly authorized.

Does this setting sync across my devices?

No. Each device has its own setting. If you disable the password on your iPhone, your iPad will still require one unless you change that setting separately. Your Mac and Apple Watch also have independent settings.

Can I use Face ID or Touch ID instead of typing my password?

Yes. If you want faster purchases without typing, keep the password requirement on but use Face ID or Touch ID to approve them. This is more secure than disabling the password entirely. The setting is already on by default — just look for the Face ID or Touch ID prompt when you make a purchase.