Weird Apple Store bug prevented app downloads; now fixed
What's the story
A weird Apple App Store bug prevented iOS users from downloading and updating their apps on the platform. The issue existed only for a small subset of Apple customers but was complicated enough to trigger a wave of complaints on Twitter. Thankfully, the Cupertino giant took note of the matter and promptly issued a fix. Here are the details.
Issue
Users engaged in App Store loop
While it is rare to see a bug blocking app downloads on the Apple App Store, this time it happened for real. On April 25, some Apple customers witnessed a 'Terms and conditions' dialog box that required them to tap on an 'Agree' button. However, tapping on that did nothing and they couldn't proceed forward, ending up being caught in a loop.
Details
Only 'canceling' allowed regular phone usage
As hitting the 'Agree' button had no effect, the users facing the problem had to hit 'Cancel' and close the dialog-box. This allowed them to continue using their phone but blocked their ability to either download a new app or update an existing one. Notably, there was not even a work-around that could have allowed them to sideload apps, as we have on Android.
Twitter Post
Here's how the bug blocked downloads
@AppleSupport what is going on with App Store? TC’s are on an endless loop when I “agree”! Please help fix this bug! #AppleSupport #PleaseHelp #TermsAndConditions #NewUpdateNeeded #ASAP pic.twitter.com/gf0QtjtCfo
— 3mcmxcii3 (@3mcmxcii31) April 25, 2019
Fix
Complaints flooded Twitter, prompting Apple to issue fix
As complaints flooded Twitter, Apple issued a server-side update to fix the bug. Speaking to TechCrunch, a person familiar with the matter explained that the issue affected a small percentage of Apple's global iOS user-base. He didn't give an exact figure, but considering the humongous install base of iOS, we believe a large number of users might have been impacted.
Fix installation
Users don't have to do anything
That said, if you've been facing this issue lately, just wait for a few hours and the problem will end on its own. It is a server-side update, which means the fix will be installed automatically and you won't have to do anything like installing a fix or update manually. So far, Apple has not commented on the issue.