How to Turn Off In-App Purchases on iPhone & iPad

Ever spotted an extra charge from the App Store on your credit card statement and wondered where it came from? It's become more common for apps to have in-app purchases, even if the app itself is free. Here's how to turn off in-app purchases on your iPhone or iPad.

Why You'll Love This Tip:

• Prevent accidental or unauthorized in-app purchases on iPhone or iPad when your kids play their favorite game.
• Enable in-app purchases in a restricted way when you require your Apple ID password or Face ID to authorize purchases.
• Say goodbye to surprise Apple charges when you turn off in-app purchases on iPhone or require password authorization.

How to Turn Off In-App Purchases

In-app purchases are becoming the new norm. They make it possible for app developers to make money on free apps. They can also be a pain when you download a free app. Especially if you (or, more likely, your kids) end up inadvertently buying tokens or subscriptions to advance in a game or use the services. Prevent a headache and learn how to turn off iOS 18 in-app purchases or enable in-app purchases with password authorization.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Screen Time.
3. Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.
4. Toggle on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
5. Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases. (To allow in-app purchases with a password, skip to step 8.)
6. Tap In-app Purchases.
7. Tap Don't Allow.
8. To allow purchase with password authorization, tap Always Require in the Require Password section.

Turning off in-app purchases is only one way Apple allows you to supervise your children's screen time. Learn more about how to set parental controls for your child for even more in-depth tips. You can also find out how to redeem an Apple Gift card with your Family Sharing group.

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