Weird Apple Store bug prevented app downloads; now fixed
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.
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.
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.
Here's how the bug blocked downloads
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.
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.
