iPad MDM issue - Downloading 'free' inapp purchases

[Dan2025]

 

Trying to set up a new batch of iPads for pupils with additional needs to have one they can use at home/in school with clicker communicator app.

 

The app has additional 'voices' that can be downloaded for free.

 

- The iPad has no account signed in. (though I have just tried with a managed ID)

- It will be used on a 1 to 1 basis. 

- Removed all restrictions linked to the iPad but still getting 'not allowed' 

 

I'm thinking this might be a bit of a problem, reading up on this and it seems like you need a personal account/ or the app publisher can provide you with a full version of the app. (Already spent £80 per app..) Seems quite the flaw if this is the only way..

 

 

[PotNoodleTech]

Yes apps that can incur itunes purchases are a big problem.  We dont allow itunes sign ins on ours and so all apps need to be purchased (even if they are free) on apple school manager.  We've come across the above and couldnt really find a way of using the app. 

[Dan2025]

17 minutes ago, PotNoodleTech said:

Yes apps that can incur itunes purchases are a big problem.  We dont allow itunes sign ins on ours and so all apps need to be purchased (even if they are free) on apple school manager.  We've come across the above and couldnt really find a way of using the app. 

 

That is frustrating, I've been battling this department to move their final iPads onto Jamf but it's been hurdle after hurdle. As they have quite a few of the apps like this that are expensive. 

Finally get the budget to buy this app in bulk and can't use the voice they use currently with all the pupils. Bahh!

 

[Alis_Klar]

Get in touch with the developer.  If they are selling to schools they really should be relying on in-App purchases.  VPP/ASM requires a paid upfront version of the app rather than the free and then subscribe model that a lot of apps have gone to.

 

You can still allow the app store and use a Apple ID with a credit card but then lock down the iPad in Jamf and disable in-app purchases.  This just stops any new purchases from happening once the subscription is active it will renew until cancelled which is separate to MDM restrictions.

 

User installed app licences and ASM licences can co-exist.

 

Another tip is you can use ScreenTime restrictions to stop users from turning off location services.  AFAIK you can't force ON location services in MDM