iOS Devices
Step 1: Open Settings
The first thing you need to do is open the Settings app on your iOS device. You can find this app on your home screen, and it looks like a gear icon.
Step 2: Go to Screen Time
Once you’re in the Settings app, scroll down and look for the “Screen Time” option. It should be located near the bottom of the list.
Step 3: Turn on Screen Time
If you haven’t set up Screen Time on your device yet, you’ll need to turn it on. Once you’ve done that, you can proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Go to Content & Privacy Restrictions
Under the “Screen Time” menu, you’ll see an option called “Content & Privacy Restrictions”. Tap on it to access the settings.
Step 5: Enable Restrictions
Once you’re in the “Content & Privacy Restrictions” menu, turn on the “Content & Privacy Restrictions” toggle. This will give you access to more settings.
Step 6: Go to iTunes & App Store Purchases
Scroll down until you see the “iTunes & App Store Purchases” option. Tap on it to access the settings.
Step 7: Turn Off In-App Purchases
Under the “iTunes & App Store Purchases” menu, you’ll see an option called “In-App Purchases”. Tap on it and turn off the toggle switch.
Step 8: Set a Passcode
To prevent anyone from turning the in-app purchases back on, you should set a passcode. This will require you to enter a code every time you want to change these settings.
Android Devices
Step 1: Open Google Play Store
The first step to turning off app purchases on an Android device is to open the Google Play Store app. You can find this app on your home screen or in your app drawer.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Once you’re in the Google Play Store app, tap on the three horizontal lines in the top left corner. This will open a menu where you can find the “Settings” option.
Step 3: Require Authentication for Purchases
Under the “Settings” menu, look for the “Require authentication for purchases” option. Tap on it and select “For all purchases through Google Play on this device”.
Step 4: Choose a Password
You’ll be prompted to choose a password or authentication method. This will be required every time you want to make a purchase.
FAQs
Q: Can I turn off in-app purchases on my child’s device?
A: Yes, you can turn off in-app purchases on any device that has access to the App Store or Google Play Store.
Q: Will turning off in-app purchases affect the apps I’ve already downloaded?
A: No, turning off in-app purchases will only prevent you from making future purchases within the app. Any apps you’ve already downloaded will still work normally.
Q: Can I turn off in-app purchases for individual apps?
A: No, turning off in-app purchases will apply to all apps on your device.
Q: Will I still be able to make purchases in other apps?
A: Yes, turning off in-app purchases only affects purchases made within the app itself. You can still make purchases through the App Store or Google Play Store.
Conclusion
Knowing how to turn off app purchases can save you from accidentally spending money on your device. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can prevent in-app purchases on both iOS and Android devices. Remember to set a passcode or authentication method to prevent anyone from turning these settings back on.