iPhone apps download via search when content restriction is set to Don't Allow

Apps still can be downloaded via search even when install apps in content restriction is set to "Don't allow".


In Setting > Content Restriction & Privacy > iTunes & App Store Purchases, Installing apps is set to "Don't Allow". As expected the Apps Store is not available. However, apps can still be downloaded. In the home screen, scroll down for search, then search the name of an app not installed, e.g. eBay. It will appear in the search results under app store. Then click "Get". The app then installs. In previous versions of iOS "Get" was grayed out and didn't action if clicked.


iOS 26.1, iPhone 17 Pro.


Anyone else able to recreate the bug? Nightmare for the kids' phones.

Posted on Dec 6, 2025 11:27 AM

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iPhone apps download via search when content restriction is set to Don't Allow

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