By Chand Bellur – September 21, 2020 at 11:18 a.m.
If you use the iTunes Store, you may have come across this error message: “Cannot connect to iTunes Store”. Learn how to find out if this is a problem with Apple’s servers, your ISP or your device.
The iTunes Store sells millions of songs and videos and usually works without issue. Sometimes users are confronted with connection problems. The most common error message is “Cannot connect to iTunes Store”. This problem could be caused by a variety of issues. Let’s take a look at how to troubleshoot this problem…
Retry Accessing the iTunes Store
If you receive an error while trying to connect to the iTunes Store, the first thing to do is just try again. These issues are usually intermittent. I find when I retry the transaction a few seconds later, it works fine. If you are using iOS or Mac OS X, simply try to purchase or download the item again. If the iTunes Store couldn’t connect upon launch, close the application and try again.
Problem With Apple’s Servers?
Apple’s data center is very reliable, however, like any data center, it’s not perfect. Servers go down due to a variety of issues. Sometimes the telecommunications company connecting Apple’s data center to the Internet is having problems. High volume can also overwhelm servers, making it difficult to connect to the iTunes Store.
Fortunately, it is easy to check the system status of every Apple service. Simply go to the Apple System Status web page to check if the service you need is running. This web page displays the status of every Apple service, including the iTunes Store, iCloud, iMessage, Siri, iTunes Radio, the App Store and many more. The web page also has a timeline showing past issues. If there is a problem with the service you are using, you will need to wait until it is fixed. You can also contact customer support, however, if the issue shows up on the system status web page, Apple already knows about it.
Problem With Your ISP?
The most common reason for the “Cannot connect to iTunes Store” error is a problem with your Internet connection. This is easily verifiable. You can try connecting to a web page on your iOS device or computer. If you experience this issue on your Apple TV, you can try connecting to a third-party service such as Netflix, YouTube or Sky News. If you can’t connect to any other services or web pages, there is a problem with your Internet connection. Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to help troubleshoot the problem.
I have also experienced iTunes Store problems when my Internet connection is slow. It is possible that you can access the web or other services, but your connection is simply too slow to work with iTunes. Basically, the connection is so slow that the authentication (login) process times out. This is usually a combination of a slow Internet connection and high demand on Apple’s servers. You can verify your Internet connection speed using Ookla Speedtest. Ookla also makes a Speedtest app for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. There is no specific speed requirement for the iTunes Store to work. However, if you notice that your Internet connection is unusually slow, this is likely the issue.
Problem With Your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch
If Apple’s servers and your Internet connection are not the problem, it could be an issue with your device. Problems connecting to the iTunes Store are usually caused by two issues — incorrect date and time settings and obsolete software.
First, make sure that your date, time and time zone settings are correct. This will ensure that you can sync with iTunes Store servers. Tap on Settings > General > Date & Time and verify that the settings are correct. You can also toggle Set Automatically off and on, if the setting exists. This should automatically fix problems with the date, time and time zone.
If your date and time settings are correct, but you still can’t connect to the iTunes Store, ensure that your device is using the newest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check if there is a newer version of iOS. Update your device to the newest operating system software to ensure compatibility with the iTunes Store.
Problem With Your Mac?
Firewalls can often pose a problem with the iTunes Store. If you can access websites but cannot access the iTunes Store, it is likely that firewall software is the problem.
If your computer was provided by your employer, make sure to check with your desktop support staff before making any changes. The company network might also have a network firewall that is blocking access to the iTunes Store. Some employers do this because they feel it increases productivity.
If you are using Mac OS X, go to the Apple menu at the top left of your screen and select System Preferences. Next, click on Security & Privacy and then click the Firewall tab. You may need to click on the lock in the lower left and type in the administrator password to make changes. Make sure that iTunes is allowing incoming connections. If it is set to block incoming connections, change it to allow them. This should enable access to the iTunes Store.
If the firewall isn’t the issue, make sure that your date and time settings are correct. Click on the Apple menu on the top left of your screen. Next, click on System Preferences and then Date & Time. Make sure that these settings are correct, especially the time zone. Turn on “Set date and time automatically” if it is not enabled.
Updating iTunes and Safari may also help with connecting to the iTunes Store. The easiest way to do this is to check for updates. Click on the Apple menu on the top left of your screen, then click on “Software Update”. Follow the on-screen instructions. If there are newer versions of iTunes and Safari, make sure to run the associated update.
If you are using an older version of OS X, it is possible that Keychain is causing iTunes Store connectivity problems. While this is unlikely, Keychain has been known to cause problems when connecting to the iTunes store. This only occurs with OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard). This issue can usually be solved by resetting Keychain, using the Keychain First Aid tool. Using Spotlight on the top right of your screen, type in Keychain Access and then launch the utility. Click on the Keychain Access menu and then click on Keychain First Aid. Login with your user ID and password and select Repair. If Keychain was causing your iTunes Store connection problem, Repair should fix the issue.
Check Your iTunes Account
You may be experiencing an error connecting to the iTunes Store due to a problem with your Apple ID or payment information. Sometimes the problem is on Apple’s end. Their authentication services may be offline or may be overwhelmed with too much traffic. When you are repeatedly seeing “Cannot connect to iTunes Store”, try signing in to the iTunes account screen with your Apple ID. After you have signed in, verify that your payment information is correct. You can view your iTunes Store account information on any device except Apple TV.
It’s possible that your payment information is no longer valid. Perhaps your credit card expired. There was also a problem a few years ago where Apple failed to properly migrate payment information after a system update.
If you have a computer with iTunes installed, launch it. Click on iTunes Store on the top of the screen. Next, click on Account on the right side of the screen.
A dialog box will pop up, prompting you to enter your Apple ID (email address) and Password.
If this information is incorrect, you will see an error — “Your Apple ID or password was entered incorrectly”. If you forgot your password, click on “Forgot?” and follow the on-screen instructions.
You can also verify your Apple ID using an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Launch the iTunes Store app and scroll to the bottom of the screen. Tap on View Apple ID. You will be prompted to enter your Apple ID and password. If these aren’t valid, tap on iForgot and follow the on-screen instructions.
When you change your Apple ID or password, it may present an error on another device where this information is cached, such as Apple TV. After your password is reset, you will need to login with the new password on other devices. On your computer and iOS device, you will be prompted for your Apple ID when necessary. Simply enter the new password. On an Apple TV, you may need to sign out and sign in again. You can do this by going to Settings > iTunes Store > Accounts and then sign out. Sign in again with the correct information.
If your Apple ID and password are not the problem, verify your payment information. The accounts screen will appear after successful authentication. On iTunes for computers, your payment information is presented under “Apple ID Summary”. Verify that the payment information is correct. You will need to click on “Edit” next to Payment Type to view your credit card’s expiration date and security code. When you get a new credit card, it may often have the same number, but a new expiration date and security code. Update this information and click Done.
You can also view and update your iTunes Store account information on an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. First, launch the iTunes Store. Next, scroll down to the bottom of the screen and tap View Apple ID. Enter your password when prompted. The Accounts Settings screen will appear. Tap on Payment Information and verify that the information is correct. Make any necessary updates and tap Done. Finally, tap Done on the Account Settings screen to exit.
Your iTunes account information should be updated on Apple’s servers, enabling access to the iTunes store on any of your devices. If it isn’t working, wait a few minutes. It’s usually instant, but it may take time for the change to propagate. If all else fails, contact Apple’s customer support.
Vague Error With Many Solutions
There are many issues that cause iTunes Store connectivity problems. The error message “Cannot connect to iTunes Store” is very vague and not helpful. Hopefully, this article has enabled you to solve these issues and you are now able to access the iTunes Store. Apple should provide more precise error messages and automated trouble shooting. We can only hope that future versions of iTunes software will make it easier for anyone to connect to the iTunes Store.
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Kalie says
I can go to app store but cannot connect to itune store they can let it login my any account like facebook and apple id,could you help me please
Appledystopia says
Have you tried using your Apple ID for the iTunes Store? It should be the same Apple ID that you use for the App Store.
boktor says
I can’t download anything with my iPhone 6. It only says “Connection with iTunes Store Failed”.
boktor says
Please help me.
Appledystopia says
Check out the comment thread, and there is some information about resetting network settings on your iPhone to restore iTune Store connectivity. It seems to be a problem introduced with iOS 10. If it’s not that, it’s also possible that Apple may be having data center problems. Your carrier or Internet Service Provider may also be experiencing problems. Try again later.
Nurchi says
Throw your iPhone at the wall and get an Android phone.
Anonymous says
Same..
Edith Thurman says
Mine is like yours. When I have iTunes running, I login and it keeps saying it cannot connect to the iTunes Store, but at the same time I can click on store and it loads. It just will NOT connect my account with MY music to it, to upload the music I have. Plus it tells me most albums are NOT qualified, yet I bought them on iTunes! It makes NO sense!!
Appledystopia says
iTunes for computers (OS X, macOS and Windows) is truly a terrible product. I stopped using it altogether. I subscribe to Google Play Music. I also found Apple Music to be hopelessly buggy with inferior audio quality compared to competing services — Spotify and Google Play Music.
As far as albums not qualified for uploading, the match feature only uploads albums that Apple doesn’t already have in the iTunes Store. If you are subscribing to Apple Music, the albums you bought on iTunes are probably already available. If you are just using the match feature, they may already have it in the cloud. Given that these are iTunes Store purchases, that’s probably why they are not uploading.
I really don’t have enough to go on here. Are you subscribing to Apple Music or iTunes Match?
ayez abbasi says
My iPhone is not connecting to iTunes. It displays “cannot connect to the iTunes Store”
Anonymous says
Mine too… What should I do to fix it?
Sherry says
I can’t get on iTunes site or icloud anything that has to do with my accounts on any device connected to my wifi. Son in law came from ky and couldn’t either on his. Messages on computer says cannot connect. On iPad says servers have stopped responding. Apple and my Isp both tried to fix. Nether have heard of this. No one can fix. Amy help?
Anonymous says
I had this problem with some devices because my Disney circle was blocking access to them.
jue says
why my phone cant connect to itunes ? the first im sign out apple id then when im trying to sign in again , it just appear cant cannot to itunes ? what would i shoud do ? help me ?
Appledystopia says
Apple had a problem in their data center, which caused an outage with some services. The iTunes Store was offline for a few hours. It is working again. This article has a link to their system status page. You can go to their system status page to see if any of their services are experiencing problems.
If you still cannot connect to the iTunes Store, it may be a problem with your Internet service provider or perhaps a configuration issue. This article presents some possible solutions.
Umar says
My phone is not connecting to the iTunes Store. It replies “cannot connect to the iTunes Store”. Help me. How can I connect?
Anonymous says
You spelled phone the wrong way!
Appledystopia says
Thanks for pointing this out. I edited the comment to fix the spelling and grammar problems. To be fair, English probably isn’t Umar’s first language, and I welcome anyone from anywhere to post comments. I don’t mind editing them.
Jarkko Multanen says
Apple TV gen3, unable to connect to itunes store. Mirroring and listening music from a laptop works. Resetting to factory defaults doesn’t work, neither does the unplug for 30 seconds trick. What to do next?
Appledystopia says
It’s most likely a problem with network connectivity. Your local area network is fine, because AirPlay works. Your WAN might be the problem. You can test this by going to Settings > General > Network and select Test Network. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Do other Apple TV channels work? If so, Apple TV is able to connect to the Internet, but there is a problem with your Apple ID. Go to Settings > iTunes Store > Accounts and sign out, then sign in again. If you can’t authenticate your Apple ID, something is wrong with it. Maybe you are entering the wrong email address or password. Follow these instructions to reset your Apple ID password. Then use this new password to login to Apple TV.
heavick vickovic says
My Iphone 5c was some problems like , the time will always go wrong , the internet always goes slow ( better in my ipad ) and now cannot connect to Apple store please help .
Appledystopia says
There are a few possible problems. The first is that there is an issue with your Internet connection. Since you say it is better on your iPad, your Internet connection might be OK. Another possibility is that there is a problem with the WiFi module. If this is the case, you need to have it replaced. It’s impossible for me to say for sure. Normally, a faulty WiFi module will eventually fail, and the WiFi setting will appear grayed out. There could also be an app running in the background, which is consuming network bandwidth. Try closing all of your other apps. Make sure no apps are updating. You may also want to turn off auto updates for apps and background content refresh. Check out this article for more information.
Zeblun kalai says
How to conect apple iPhone 4s iTune store pls hlp
Appledystopia says
Try opening the iTunes Store app on your iPhone. Scroll to the bottom of the screen and tap View Apple ID. Follow the instructions on page 3 of this article. It may be that your password is incorrect or something is wrong with your account information.
Bjarni says
Cannot connect to iTunes on my iPhone nor my iPad. When tabbing iTunes icon this appears: “Open the iTunes U app” if I tap on this text this appears: “Cannot connect to iTunes Store”. I can open my App Store without problems.
I have followed every instruction and advises I have found on this, including checking connection, restoring the phone and the pad, verifying my I account etc.
Please help
Appledystopia says
Have you tried opening the iTunes U app directly? It may be an issue with passing authentication information between the two apps. I’m not sure, because I can’t view the source code.
Bjarni says
I can open the iTunes U directly. But iTunes Store still won´t open, seems like it is stuck on this “Open the iTunes U app”
Could restoring factory settings solve this?
Anonymous says
same issue here.. 🙁 Cannot connect to iTunes Store.
Appledystopia says
The problem may be with parental controls in iTunes. You need to launch iTunes on a computer with the same Apple ID as your iOS device. Next, click on iTunes on the top menu and select Preferences from the menu. Click on the Parental tab on the Preferences screen. If you don’t see iTunes U checked, you will need to check iTunes Store, then check iTunes U and then uncheck iTunes Store. You should see iTunes U grayed out, but no other options selected. Click OK when you are done.
You may have to experiment with these settings and try restarting iTunes and your device. I read this on another site, but it was explained quite poorly. I intend on updating this article with a clear explanation of how to fix it. But the crux of this issue is with the parental controls in iTunes. Whatever your current settings are, changing them will likely fix the problem.
This is a bug. I noticed it was like this on iTunes on my Mac. Since I don’t use iTunes U, it didn’t affect me. I am running an older version of iTunes (12.2.0.145) mainly because I don’t use iTunes much at all. I think it’s one of the worst things Apple has created. Perhaps they fixed it in an update. This problem that so many people are having is all the more reason I don’t like iTunes.
Please let me know what is checked and unchecked on parental controls. It will help me update this article, which will help others who are facing the same issue.
Khan says
I am having the same issue with my iTunes, and also my brother is having the same problem. May be it is a regional issue. I am from Pakistan.
I have tried everything suggested by you in this article but in vain. Still cannot connect to iTunes Store. I can connect to Apple Store and also iTunes U but not the music store (iTunes) itself.
Appledystopia says
I think parental controls (Restrictions) may be the problem. I need to add this to the article. Check your Restrictions in iTunes (Mac or Windows) — from the top menu click on iTunes > Preferences and then the Restrictions tab. Make sure these are set properly. What happens is that if iTunes U is selected, the iTunes Store is often deselected by default, which blocks access to the iTunes Store.
Aliff says
Im using iphone 4s ios 6 version but when i open my itune store it says “cant connect to itune store”. Whyy??. Any suggestion please?
Appledystopia says
Unfortunately, everything I know about how to fix this issue is presented in this article. It could very well be an intermittent problem, caused by a network issue or an outage in Apple’s data center. Try everything listed in this article, and hopefully it will work.
Sajid says
I cannot connect to my itunes store, when i open my itunes store it gives the error Connot connect to itunes store
Appledystopia says
Have you tried the steps in this article?
Wilson says
Apple TV 3rd gen won’t connect to iTunes. Tried everything you said in the post and nothing works. I can’t do anything because it says “cannot connect to iTunes Store” and it won’t do the connection test and even creating a new account is no good. What can I do??
Appledystopia says
As a last resort, you can restore it to factory settings. It’s not a huge deal on an Apple TV 3. You will need to enter some account information again and download updates. Go to Settings > General > Reset and select Restore. This will basically restore your Apple TV 3 back to original, factory settings. You then need to set it up again, but it doesn’t take that long if you have your passwords and a fast Internet connection for the updates.
Asia says
I’m using iphone 5s ios 9.1…..
I can’t connect to itune store it’s like cannot connect to itune store…
But it’s connecting Apps store…..what’s the reason?
plz help me
Appledystopia says
It seems like your network connection is OK. I suggest doing a reset — hold down the sleep/wake and home buttons until you see the Apple logo on the screen, then release both buttons. This should clear out any bad configuration data that may be cached in the iTunes Store app.
Anonymous says
I’m using iPhone 6s it’s blocked the home button, l can’t open my phone, tried the pin & thump both won’t open,it’s saying connect iTunes, how am l going to open when it’s disabled my number isv0732524648 please him since yesterday.
Appledystopia says
I recommend connecting your iPhone to a computer with iTunes. If you don’t own a computer, try taking it in to the Apple store.
Arfat says
I am using I phone 6s. I m trying to connect to I tune store but it always shows like “can not connect to I tune store” my network is in good working condition. Need some guide line my cell number 03205457622.
Appledystopia says
It could be an issue with your Apple ID. Make sure that your user name and password are correct. Try this:
– Tap on Settings > iTunes & App Store
– Tap on your Apple ID
– You should see a panel with your Apple ID and some options. Tap on “sign out”.
– On the iTunes & App Store setting screen, tap Sign In and enter your Apple ID and password.
If there’s a problem with the authentication at this point, you should get an error. Make sure to get the correct Apple ID and password and sign in again.
I’m not 100% sure if this is the problem, but it’s worth a shot.
Amni Syamimi says
I cannot install any apps in my ipad..help me..
Appledystopia says
What error message are you getting? Is it “Cannot Connect to iTunes Store”? If so, follow the steps in this article. It could also be a temporary problem with Apple’s servers.
Sumansekharpradhan says
How connect iTunes Store plz help me..I can’t use any download & software…
Ieva says
I have the same problem right now
Anonymous says
me too
Anonymous says
Turn off your iPhone or iPad 1st, and then turn it back ON and go to iTunes store or App store sign In again.
Appledystopia says
You can also try doing a reset. Hold the sleep/wake and home buttons until you see the Apple logo.
That said, the current issue (today and yesterday) with the iTunes Store is a problem in the data center. You’ll have to wait until they fix it.
Magz says
Turn Off your Device , after that turn ON your device again and try to sign in in iTunes or App Store
malik hamza says
i am using iphone 5s ios 9.3.3 and it cannot connect to the itunes store i have tried every thing but can not work can u tell me whatss the problem??
Appledystopia says
Did it used to work before you upgraded to iOS 9.3.3?
bhembhamv says
I cannot access to Itunes just because the versions do not match,i can no longer update the version of my itunes,and my phone is IOS 9.2.1
Muhammad Irfan says
I have the ssme problem. I am operating my id and passward on laptop correctly. But it is not working on my iohone 4s. Please give suggestion how can i recovrr my data from the cell.
Appledystopia says
Try doing a soft reset — hold down the sleep/wake and home buttons at the same time until you see the Apple logo, then release both. Your iPhone 4S will restart and it might work. It could also be a network issue. Can you connect to websites or anything on the Internet using this device?
sahar says
i can go to app store but i cant connect to itunes store with apple id.
🙁 help me please
Appledystopia says
It could be that the email address or password associated with the Apple ID are incorrect. Here’s some information from Apple that may help:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201487
yorelyn says
Why is it when I sign in app store the result is can’t connect iTunes store try again.
Appledystopia says
There’s a problem in Apple data center. It’s not showing up on their system status page, but I know there’s a problem. This page always gets a lot of views when there is a problem with Apple’s servers. I also experienced a problem connecting to the iTunes Store last night on my Apple TV. Keep trying!
Anonymous says
i am using iphone 6s ios 9.3.5 and it cannot connect to the itunes store i have tried every thing but can not work.
Appledystopia says
There seems to be a problem with the iTunes Store right now. I notice that a lot of people are coming to this page, which usually means there’s a problem in Apple’s data center. Apple’s system status page shows a maintenance window on Thursday from 6pm to midnight Pacific US Time. It doesn’t make sense. Why would they do maintenance during peak usage? I also see, despite the number of hits on this page, Apple doesn’t show any more problems. It seems to me that there are problems in Apple’s data center and they’re not being transparent about it.
I also had a problem with the iTunes Store on my Apple TV last night. There’s not much you can do about it. Keep trying!
Ar says
Hi
My iphone was restored with iCloud account.all notes and call history and contact turn back but after restoring I can’t connect to iTunes,my time zone and speed network is ok,please help us
Appledystopia says
Try logging out of your iTunes Store account and then logging back in. You can do this by going to Settings > iTunes & App Store. Next, tap on your Apple ID at the top. Tap Sign Out when prompted. Finally, sign in again with that Apple ID. It should either work or inform you about the problem.
Anonymous says
Yeah, thank you that worked for me.
Anonymous says
yes its not working right now either
Jodie says
Hi, I am experience problems with my iStore and appStore. It says the terms have service have updated when trying to download apps but then when trying to open the iStore to accept it crashes and says there is an issue. When I try to go through the iStore itself it says it cannot connect.
Appledystopia says
Apple was having problems in their data center last night. It should work now.
Devon says
My problem is on my iPhone. I am fully connected to the Internet, my date and time are fine, and my other Apple ID requests work with other places. My issues is the App Store.
I had changed my primary email a couple of hours ago. It worked when I relogged into Apple and the App Store. So I’m logged in under apps and the actual app (meaning the login works).
When I try to download any app (I tried several) it gives me the “cannot connect” when I put in the correct password.
Appledystopia says
Apple was having problems in their data center last night. It should work now.
efahnabilah says
I updated my itunes and iphone 6. Now the itunes cant detect my device and I have tried restarting both laptop and phones.
Appledystopia says
Are you referring to the WiFi sync? If so, you sometimes need to plug your iPhone into your computer using the USB cable to get the sync working again, after certain iOS upgrades.
Najihah Sukri says
I have a problem with “cannot connect to itunes store” . I just updated to iOS 10. I cannot download any apps with this problem. Can you help ?
Aliana Neal says
Hey,
i did a soft reset by pressing the home and sleep key as you told and it worked like a charm !!
“. I suggest doing a reset — hold down the sleep/wake and home buttons until you see the Apple logo on the screen, then release both buttons. This should clear out any bad configuration data that may be cached in the iTunes Store app.”
Thanks
Appledystopia says
The reset fixes a lot of problems. Whenever I have a problem with any iOS device, I reset it. It sure isn’t like the Mac. I never reboot my Mac.
Anonymous says
I can’t connect to I to store
Chetna says
i cant able to connect my iphone to my Pc when I am trying connect error massage i got version is old install 64 bit , I did ad up to dated everything but still having same problem , is not connecting to my Pc
Appledystopia says
Have you tried upgrading your iTunes software?
Theda Holbrook says
I updated to IOS 10. Since that time I get the ‘cannot connect with app store’ and ‘cannot connect to itunes’ on my ipad or iphone. I contacted Apple and worked with two different support people for hours on two different occasions. One was a ‘senior’ care advisor. She said she had same model ipad and was having same issue! I tried everything they have suggested… over and over again. I still can’t connect using my home wifi, but strangely enough can connect using my mobile hotspot. However the Apple and itunes sites now want my credit card info again, along with my SSN before I can sign in therefore, I can’t update iTunes on my home computer to perform a backup/restore. I don’t remember having to provide my SSN when I originally opened my accounts years ago! I’m thinking my next step is to chuck my iPad, iPhone and go to an android device! Any suggestions?
Appledystopia says
It seems like it’s a bug with iOS 10. I’ve been holding off on upgrading to iOS 10, because Apple’s releases have been sloppy for the past few years. I used to upgrade the day they were released. Now I wait a few months. I was almost tempted to upgrade today, but after reading your experience, I’ll wait!
They may have suggested this, but I would try resetting the device. This isn’t a full factory restore, but it will reset some of the cached data. You won’t lose any user data, apps or content. Just hold down the Home button and sleep/wake button until you see the Apple logo. Your device will start back up after a few minutes. It’s kind of like restarting the device, but it clears out cached data. There may be some cached data with your home WiFi network that’s causing the problem.
Another thing to try — sign out and back in to the iTunes Store. You can do this by going to Settings > iTunes & App Store. Next, tap on your Apple ID and then tap “sign out”. You can sign back in from there, or when your device needs your Apple ID.
Since your WiFi network seems to be an issue, you could try forgetting the WiFi network and then signing in again. Go to Settings > WiFi and then tap the “i” next to your WiFi network. Tap on the forget network button and then sign in again with the WiFi password. I would also try restarting your WiFi router.
I’ve noticed a lot of traffic on this page after iOS 10 was released. At first I thought it may be due to demand on Apple’s servers. Now I am starting to believe there is a bug in iOS 10 preventing Apple ID authentication. As usual, Apple will be silent about this and then release a patch sometime, unless they can fix it on the server side.
Theda Holbrook says
Thank you for your reply and suggestions! I have tried all those things you suggested multiple times. Nothing works! Using a different wifi source, I was able to access the Apple site and verify my Apple id. However, I still get the same ‘cannot connect’ message.
It’s looking more and more like Apple has driven me to Android devices!
Appledystopia says
I can’t blame you. There are a few things that keep me with Apple products — high quality hardware, excellent multimedia creation capabilities (peerless on mobile devices), and (unfortunately) ecosystem lock-in (hundreds of dollars of iTunes movies, TV shows and apps). That said, their services are abysmal. They aren’t very good when it comes to running data centers or implementing services (iCloud, iTunes Store). Unfortunately, there are no third-party alternatives. You must have an Apple ID and if, for whatever reason, it doesn’t work, you’re out of luck. Your devices are hobbled without the Apple ID authentication working.
I notice that my Apple TV is asking me to log in to the Apple Store a few times a day. I think there’s something wrong on the server side or with data center operations. Needless to say, it’s quite annoying to type in a strong password repeatedly. Siri dictation doesn’t work well, as it can’t tell the difference between certain letters, no matter how clearly and slowly they are spoken. I’m asked to enter my Apple ID password far too often, for a device that sits in my living room. It’s not by design, but simply due to defective software.
I’ve been reading that Apple is trying to improve their server-side technology. They really need to step it up. Google and Amazon are flawless when it comes to server-side technology and data center operations.
I’m personally going to stick with Apple devices, but to a lesser extent than before. For example, I’m never going to buy another iPad. I can’t justify spending $700 on a device that’s far less capable than a notebook computer and is obsolete in 3 years. An iPhone is enough iOS for me. I will stick with the Mac, iPhone and Apple TV, upgrading them only when necessary. Unfortunately, Apple has really gotten into the business of hobbling older devices. They didn’t do this in the past. My old iPhone 4, which I still keep around, is actually still quite usable because they cut it off from iOS updates. Now they are tricking users into updating older devices, but the updates render them useless. They’re hobbling them so people will buy a new one. The Apple I loved (headed by Steve Jobs) had people buying devices because they were great. Now they seem to be tricking people into upgrading devices, instead of having them do it out of brand loyalty and respect. It’s had quite the opposite effect on me. If they’re going to hobble devices after 3 years, I won’t buy them as often.
C.C. says
I’ve tried logging into the App and iTunes stores many times but I still get this error no matter how many times I try. Could you please help? Thank you!
Anonymous says
tried many of the options typically mentioned (like check date and OS). Finally I was so fed up and I reset all the settings, after which I was able to login. There is some setting that was preventing me from logging in, I still don’t know which one. In the mean time I have changed all my settings again otherwise my ipod’s battery is empty after a day
Appledystopia says
Thanks for the information! I’ll add it to this article.
WAN MOHD AZMANURI says
This is a very big problem and you can’t handle the truth. I’m updating my iPhone 5 to iOS 10. Unfortunately my Internet access stopped and I’m stuck in the middle of updating. And my lovely iPhone tells me to connect with iTunes. When I connect to iTunes using my laptop it says nothing like my laptop can’t recognize my iPhone. It’s like my phone has mental illness. How can I fix this problem? I’m already using 3 iPhone cables, but nothing happens. On my iPhone screen it shows cable > iTunes. Please help me.
Appledystopia says
You’ll probably need to do a factory restore using iTunes. Here’s some information from Apple.
Ajib says
Only Google works but Facebook & the iCloud Apple Store are not working.
Josh says
Since I downloaded the last update I’ve started to notice that getting anything from the iTunes Store is a royal pain. I have to turn my phone on and off and even that doesn’t work. I’ve checked my wifi, when I’m not on wifi, sign in/out, etc. I don’t hook this up to my MacBook anymore. You’d think things would be smooth with an iPhone 7.
Appledystopia says
I’ve heard others mention this too. I’ve put off upgrading to iOS 10 because there are too many reports of defects. The good news is that Apple will fix these problems. Unfortunately, iOS 10 comes with a new iPhone 7, and there’s no way to downgrade. I really wish Apple would allow it, even if it meant starting with a clean slate. My hunch is they do it so they can brag about how many people upgraded to the new version of iOS. If they were allowed to downgrade, that wouldn’t be true. I guess there are some edge cases. If someone upgraded to iOS 10, purchased an app that required iOS 10 and then downgraded, they could no longer use the app. They could issue a refund. Apple likes to keep things simple, however.
Hang in there. It will get better. I used to upgrade to the new version of iOS the day it launched. Now I wait weeks or even months. I can see having some defects in a “.0” release, but these major releases are very buggy. There isn’t an excuse for it. Unlike Android or Windows, Apple’s operating system only works on their devices. They need to invest more in QAT or limit the number of features in a release so that it’s more stable.
In my opinion, iOS 10 isn’t a compelling upgrade. I really don’t care about Messages and those silly stickers. I get it, millennials love iPhones (tattoos and stretched earlobes) and Apple caters to them. I was surprised that the AirPods weren’t made to fit in stretched earlobes. To be fair, they’re giving customers what they want. They seem to be creating their PRD’s based on market research. Other operating systems… Well, you have to wonder how they come up with their cockamamie features. I think part of it is that they need to go where Apple doesn’t want to go, and make that feature seem appealing. It’s like tapping phones together to share data. AirDrop is so much better, but their competitor used it as a selling point. Their competitor also tried to compete on battery life, to disastrous results. Now there are reports another model in their smartphone lineup is having the same problem.
Elizabeth says
I am unable to open or download updates to my apps. My iTunes account (email address) is associated with an old email address. I don’t have my password nor access to that email account any longer.
Appledystopia says
I see your dilemma. Even though you normally don’t need to access the email account to login to the iTunes Store, you do need it to retrieve a password. In this case, you’ll need to contact Apple’s customer support. It’s a hassle, but it keeps your account safe from hackers.
Randy Layton says
I can’t get my iPhone 6 to be recognized at all by iTunes, even though when I plug it into the computer it always asks to “trust” this computer. I say yes every time but nothing happens after that. iTunes is grayed out when looking to do anything with the phone. Yet in diagnostics it recognizes that I have an account, serial, phone, etc. I have uninstalled and reinstalled iTunes. I have had Apple support on the phone, including escalated support, and they can’t figure it out. (They can’t remote into the machine either using their software. Yet I can go anywhere else I want on the internet, including Apple sites. We’ve done every last thing I can think of. Host file: check. Services: check. And so on. There should be no reason for this. It worked about a year ago then stopped working and I have given up on Apple except using the phone for texts and emails. Now when I want to back up the phone, it fails every time, and that’s including choosing just contacts only. So I can’t use iCloud. Verizon will back up most everything but not messages. I want to scream. Or go to Android. It shouldn’t be this frickin’ hard. I have spent literally all day on this. It’s insane. Ideas?
Appledystopia says
Just a thought — can you verify that the USB port and cable are working properly? You’d be surprised, but a lot of USB ports and cables are defective. I was ripping my hair out trying to update a different device (not Apple) and it ended up being the USB port.
Why can’t you backup on iCloud? If it doesn’t work, it may be that there is some deeper problem with the device.
One last suggestion — try doing a reset. Hold down the Home and Sleep/Wake buttons for about 10 seconds, until you see the Apple logo, then release both. When iOS comes back up, try plugging it into your computer.
If all else fails, take it to the Apple Store.
L says
So my iPhone 6 says I have a pending update to iOS 10.1 but when I try to it keeps saying update requested and won’t update no matter what I do. I can’t use my iCloud and iTunes over my WiFi connection, except when I buy data on my phone directly, backed up my phone, won’t even allow me sign in to iCloud to factory reset my phone and hopefully start all over. Help please its driving me nuts.
PS: Buying enough data to do anything over my network is ridiculously expensive.
Appledystopia says
I’ve heard about this problem, and it seems specific to iOS 10. They probably fixed it in 10.1, but it’s a catch-22. You can’t upgrade without authenticating your Apple ID with Apple’s servers.
You can try doing a reset. Hold down the Home and Sleep/Wake button until you see the Apple logo (approximately 10 seconds), then release both buttons.
If this doesn’t work, try doing the update using iTunes on a computer. Here’s Apple’s instructions for doing iOS updates using iTunes.
JC says
I just figured mine out:
1. Reset my network settings (General, scroll to bottom, Reset, mid way select Reset Network Settings)
This was an issue prior to downloading IOS 10.1.1
Appledystopia says
Thanks for sharing this tip!
Kras says
Hi all,
Found a solution that worked for me.
After updating my iPhone 5S to 10.1.1 couldn’t connect to App Store or iTunes Store. After hours of troubleshooting – restarting the phone, signing in and out from App Store etc., I discovered that under “Mobile data” there’s an option that lets you select which apps to use WLAN/mobile data or Off.
Both App Store and iTunes Store were set to off. I changed them to WLAN and voila now I can connect to the stores. Hope this helps.
Appledystopia says
This is very helpful information. Thank you for sharing!
Empole says
OMG TY SO MUCH I <3 UUUUUU!
Neeraj says
Hi. I forgot my iTunes password and ID too and can’t recover either of them due to which none of the software is getting updated. I want to change that ID and want to login with a new one. Please help.
Appledystopia says
Your Apple ID is your email address. If you don’t remember which one you used, you can go to https://appleid.apple.com/ and try different email accounts out. Once you have your Apple ID, you can use the same site to reset your password.
Apple won’t provide the ID and password, for obvious reasons. If they did, anyone could hack into your account.
Anonymous says
I cannot connect to the iTunes store. I have tried using my Apple ID and it still will not work and I cannot restart my device.
Appledystopia says
It’s possible that the iTunes Store is having problems. Try it again later. It’s also possible that there’s a problem with your iTunes Store account. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Store and tap on your Apple ID. Next, tap on Sign Out. Your Apple ID will be replaced with a Sign In label. Tap on that and sign in. This fixes most problems with iTunes Store accounts.
Since you’re on iOS 5.1.1, I’m not sure if the iTunes & App Store settings are the same, but there should be a way to quickly sign out and in to iTunes & the App Store.
Buckeyes#1 says
I had this same problem and spent a full day on trying to fix it while receiving Apple tech help also. I finally fixed it by clicking settings, general then scroll to very bottom and click reset. Finally the last thing I did was reset my network settings! Fixed!!!
Appledystopia says
A few iOS 10 users have complained about this problem and posited this solution. It’s all the more reason I haven’t upgraded to iOS 10 yet. There’s also a battery bug where the device shuts down at 30-40%. I’ll add this to the article when I have a chance. Thanks for adding the comment. It will likely help a frustrated user.