Can I Download Apps Without Apple ID? [Top 9 Ways]

Updated by Brian Davis on Jul 14, 2025 • Category: Unlock iOS
5 mins read

As an iOS user, you can easily download apps from App Store on your iPhone or iPad. You need to sign in your Apple ID, and enter your password every time when you're downloading an app. It verifies that you are who you say you are. This helps Apple keep track of app downloads and ensure that only authorized users access their services.

Some people are tired of putting in the password every time; some even cannot remember the password. So, is that possible to download apps without Apple ID password? That's the topic we're going to explore today.

download apps without apple id

Part 1. Can I download apps without an Apple ID?

Yes — but with limits. Apple requires an Apple ID for nearly all App Store downloads to maintain security and user accountability. However, you can still use the following methods to download apps without Apple ID:

  • First, you can disable password for iTunes Store & App Store, or use Face ID or Family Sharing to download apps.
  • If you forgot Apple ID or password, you can reset it or remove Apple ID with TunesKit iPhone Unlocker.
  • Finally, use a dummy Apple ID, an old version of iTunes 12.6.3, some third-party tools, or jailbreak your device.
Method Apple Approved Apple ID Required
1️⃣ Disable Password ✅ (once)
2️⃣ Face ID or Touch ID
3️⃣ Family Sharing ✅ (linked)
4️⃣ TunesKit iPhone Unlocker
5️⃣ Reset Apple ID
6️⃣ Dummy ID ⚠️
7️⃣ Old iTunes
8️ Third-party App Store ⚠️
9️ Jailbreak

In the following, I'll show you 9 different methods to download and install apps on iPhone without an Apple ID. You can try them from simple to advanced ones.

Part 2. How to download apps without Apple ID in 9 ways

My iPhone 16 is asking me for password when I'm downloading apps. I do not want to do that every time so please teach me how to download apps without using Apple ID password. - loni146 from Apple Community."

Method 1. Turn off "Require Password" for free downloads

For some free apps, you're allowed to download them without the need to input your Apple ID password repeatedly. To enable this feature, you can choose to turn off the require password option under Apple ID settings. Here's how to do it.

Step 1. Go to Settings app, tap your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
Step 2. Select Media & Purchases section, tap on Password Settings in the pop-up box.
Step 3. Toggle off the Require Password option under FREE DOWNLOADS, then you can download free apps without entering your Apple ID password.

turn off require password option

tipsNote:

If you want to download paid apps without password, you can choose Require After 15 Minutes Under WHEN PURCHASING. Thus, you'll be able to install paid apps without Apple ID password for a limited time.

Video: How to download apps without Apple ID password

Now, let's watch the following short video. In this video, we'll show you how to install apps without Apple ID password in iOS 16 and later versions.

prosPros:
  • Fastest method
  • No password required for free apps
consCons:
  • Still requires an Apple ID to be signed in

Method 2. Use Face ID or Touch ID to download apps without Apple ID password

A hassle-free and secure way to download apps on iPhone without Apple ID password is to use Face ID or Touch ID. This biometric technology simplifies the app downloading experience significantly. Just follow these simple steps to enable Face ID or Touch ID for iTunes & App Store.

Step 1. Open Settings app on your iPhone, scroll down and tap on Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode, then type your lock screen passcode (if it's set).
Step 2. Toggle the slider to enable iTunes & App Store. Then you can download apps with Face ID or Touch ID, instead of entering Apple ID password.
Step 3. Navigate to the App Store, look up the app you want, and tap on Get button.
Step 4. Double click the Power button to start the installation, and you can start the download process directly with Face ID or Touch ID.

enable itunes and app store

prosPros:
  • Lowest risk
  • No Apple ID password required to download apps from App Store
consCons:
  • Still requires an Apple Account to be signed in

Method 3. Use Family Sharing to download purchased or free apps

If you're part of a Family Sharing group, you can download apps that other family members have already purchased without needing to enter a password or pay again. The organizer of the family group controls the shared payment method. This is an excellent way for family members to access a wide range of apps using a single purchase. Here is how to use it.

Step 1. Ask a family member to invite you via Settings > Family > Add Member.
Step 2. Join the family group.
Step 3. Go to the App Store > Purchased > Family Member's Name.
Step 4. Download any previously purchased or free apps.

set up family sharing

prosPros:
  • No need to enter Apple ID credentials
  • Secure and Apple-approved
consCons:
  • Needs cooperation from another user
  • Can't download new paid apps independently

Method 4. Remove old Apple ID and create a new one [Recommend]

If you can't download apps because you have forgotten your Apple ID and password, then you can remove the old Apple ID from iPhone or iPad, and create a new account to download & purchase apps. Or, if you only forgot the password, you can simple reset it.

TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is highly recommended here. It's professional software that helps you to remove your Apple ID without password. During the process of removing Apple ID, it will keep your data properly, so there is no need to worry about data leakage.

In addition to the Apple ID removal feature, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker also unlocks all types of screen locks on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, including numeric passcode, Face ID, Touch ID and more. With its help, both Screen Time passcode and MDM locks can be bypassed without requiring passcode.

Why Choose TunesKit iPhone Unlocker?

Remove Apple ID and password quickly with easy-to-use feature and user-friendly interface. It can also bypass iPhone/iPad/iPod screen lock without passcode.

Try It Free safe 600,000+ Downloads

Here's how to remove Apple ID without password using TunesKit iPhone Unlcoker:

remove apple id

Step 1. Launch TunesKit iPhone Unlocker on your PC and choose Unlock Apple ID from the main screen. Connect your device to the computer via a USB cable, and hit the Start button to kick things off.

Step 2. See if the Find My feature is on. If it is, make sure you've set a passcode and enabled two-factor authentication. Once everything's confirmed, download the firmware package. If Find My is off, skip this and go to the next step.

Step 3. Click the Unlock button. TunesKit will start removing the Apple ID from your device. After it's done, your device will reboot. You'll need to set it up again, including the option to create a new Apple ID for downloading apps.

Try It Free Try It Free
prosPros:
  • Remove previous Apple Account without password
  • Create a new one for App Store downloads
consCons:
  • The program is not free, with a free trial for you.

Method 5. Change or reset Apple ID password

When you download apps from App Store, you're required to enter your password. If you only forgot the password, you can simple reset it. Next, follow the official instructions below to change the Apple ID password and then download your apps.

Step 1. Go to Settings, and tap your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
Step 2. Select Sign-In & Security, and tap Change Password.
Step 3. Enter your current password or device passcode. Then enter a new password and confirm it. Finally, tap Change. Now you can use the new password to download apps.

change apple id password

prosPros:
  • Official way to change Apple ID password
consCons:
  • Still needs your Apple ID and password to download apps from App Store

Method 6. Use a dummy Apple ID to download apps without primary Apple ID

A dummy Apple ID is a secondary, disposable Apple account without personal data or payment info. It is risky because it can be locked by Apple, offers limited access to features, and may be hard to recover if you lose the login. If it's shared or from an untrusted source, it can also pose security risks. Remember to use this only for non-personal devices or for temporary setups. Here is how to create one.

Step 1. Visit account.apple.com and create a new account.
Step 2. Skip adding a credit card.
Step 3. Use this ID to sign in and download free apps.

create a dummy apple id

prosPros:
  • Bypasses linking your main Apple ID
  • Great for shared or test devices
consCons:
  • Still needs sign-in
  • Risk of Apple restrictions if misused

Method 7. Install an older iTunes version that supports App Store

Of course, there are some other methods that can help you download apps on iPhone or iPad without using Apple ID or password. Try using an old version of iTunes, especially iTunes 12.6.3, which still has the App Store. You can find it in the Apple Support Community. Once you've installed it, connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Trust the computer, and you'll be able to access the App Store and download apps without needing your Apple ID.

use itunes 12.6.3

prosPros:
  • Easier to manage downloads
  • Less on-device friction
consCons:
  • Requires a computer
  • Apple no longer officially supports this method

Method 8. Use third-party app stores (sideloading)

With Apple loosening App Store restrictions in some countries, users now have more access to third-party installers. There are plenty of third-party tools that let you download apps without app store, thus without using an Apple ID.

Check out AltStore, TweakBox, TuTuApp, and iOS Emu. These tools allow you to install apps directly on your device, no jailbreak required. But be careful! These sources might not have the same security as the official App Store. Always ensure you trust the source before downloading.

I'll take AltStore as an example and show you how to use it properly.

Step 1. Download AltStore on your Mac/PC.
Step 2. Connect your iPhone.
Step 3. Use AltServer to install AltStore on your device.
Step 4. Open AltStore on iOS and browse apps.

sideload via altstore

tipsLatest News:

In 2025, Australia and EU countries are rolling out laws that require Apple to support alternative app markets. U.S. users may have limited access unless Apple expands support.

prosPros:
  • No Apple ID needed (after setup)
  • Access to apps not available in App Store
consCons:
  • May require reauthorization every 7 days
  • App revokes and instability possible

Method 9. Jailbreak your iOS device to download apps without Apple ID

Thinking about jailbreaking to skip the Apple ID? Jailbreaking removes Apple's restrictions, giving you more control over your device. It's a quick process, often done in about 15 minutes, and lets you install any app you want.

However, be aware of the risks. Jailbreaking can void your warranty and expose your device to unsafe apps. You're trading Apple's security for more freedom. So, think carefully before you decide to jailbreak. Here are some general process.

Step 1. Find a jailbreak tool compatible with your iOS version (e.g., Unc0ver, Checkra1n).
Step 2. Follow the tool's guide carefully.
Step 3. Install Cydia or Sileo to manage sideloaded apps.

jailbreak via unc0ver

prosPros:
  • Full control over device
  • Access to customizations and apps
consCons:
  • Voids warranty
  • Major security risks
  • Apps may break during updates

See More: How to Jailbreak iOS Devices on Windows
How to Jailbreak iOS Devices on Mac

Part 3. FAQs related to downloading apps without Apple ID

Here are some questions that our users are concerned about downloading apps without Apple ID. Check the quick answers below.

  • Q1: Is it safe to download apps without an Apple ID?

    Generally, yes — if you use Apple-approved methods (e.g., free app downloads, Touch ID or Face ID, Family Sharing). Using third-party app stores or jailbreaking can pose security risks and void warranties.

  • Q2: Is it legal to use AltStore?

    Yes — sideloading itself isn't illegal, but distributing paid apps without license or jailbreaking may breach Apple's terms.

  • Q3: Can I use a friend's Apple ID to download apps?

    While possible, it's not recommended for security reasons. It's best to use your own Apple ID.

  • Q4: How can I download apps without an Apple ID password every time?

    If you want to download apps without entering your Apple ID password every time, you can use Face ID or Touch ID, or turn off Require Password option in the settings on your iPhone.

  • Q5: Do you need an Apple ID to download apps from the App Store?

    Yes, you need an Apple ID to download apps from the App Store. It's required for user authentication, app purchases, and syncing your data across devices. This helps keep your transactions secure and your app usage personalized.

Part 5. The bottom line

Well, these are the top 9 ways to download apps without Apple ID. If you only need to download free apps, you can turn off the password requirement in your settings. You can also use Face ID or Family Sharing as an alternative to your Apple ID for identity verification when downloading apps. Additionally, iTunes 12.6.3 includes an App Store, which can be used as a secure method for app downloads without any cost.

While third-party software and jailbreaking your device might allow app downloads without Apple ID, these methods can pose security risks. Furthermore, tools like TunesKit iPhone Unlocker can help you remove an existing Apple ID, enabling you to set up a new one. It comes with a simple and user-friendly interface, it is always your best choice.

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