NewsApp Store is where you can download and update the apps on Apple devices. Sometimes, you can’t find App Store on your screen. Do you know why it disappears and how to find it out? This post from NewsPivot explains the causes and fixes to the App Store disappearing from iPhone issue.
Why Is App Store Missing from iPhone/iPad?
Before addressing the App Store missing on iPhone issue, you should know why it happens. You may think that you delete App Store by accident, but in fact, it cannot be deleted simply. Therefore, if you can’t find App Store, it is mostly because you misplace it or hide it somehow. In addition, app restrictions and outdated iOS versions can also be the culprits of this issue.
Also read: [Full Guide] App Store Download for iPhone/iPad.
How to Deal with App Store Disappearing from iPad/iPhone?
Force Restart Your Device
Restarting your device is a basic method you should try first. It can address and repair most of the issues caused by minor system glitches, including App Store disappearing from iPad/iPhone.
- Press and hold the Side button and one of the Volume buttons together.
- Drag the Power icon to the right when the slider shows on the screen.
- After a moment, press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears.
Search for App Store on iPhone
If the App Store disappearing from iPhone/iPad issue still persists after restarting, this is because you may accidentally place it in another folder and forget it. The quickest way to find App Store is to search for it in App Library and Spotlight Search.
Find App Store in Spotlight Search: swipe down from the middle of the Home Screen to launch Spotlight Search, and then type App Store in the search bar. It should appear in the results bar, then you can tap on it to open it. If you place it in a folder, the folder name should be next to its icon.
Find App Store in App Library: swipe left to access App Library and type App Store in the search bar. It will show automatically, and you can long-press it to add it to your Home Screen.
Unhide the Home Screen Page
iOS 14 and later versions allow you to hide the entire Home Screen page to keep your screen neat. You may hide the page where App Store is located by mistake, causing App Store disappearing from iPhone/iPad. Therefore, you need to unhide all pages to make App Store visible and accessible.
Step 1: Long-press an empty area on the Home Screen until the icons start shaking, and then tap on the page dots at the bottom.
Step 2: All Home Screen pages will show up. Make sure that all pages are selected and then tap on Done to confirm your action.
Reset Home Screen Layout
Apple allows you to configure the Home Screen layout according to your needs. You can hide apps, add them to a folder, or remove them. If you can’t find App Store on your screen, it is a good option to reset the Home Screen layout. That will remove all the customizations you make, including the wallpaper and screen settings.
Step 1: Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 2: Tap on Reset > Reset Home Screen Layout > Reset Home Screen to confirm your action.
After that, App Store will automatically show on your Home Screen.
Check Restrictions Settings
Screen Time is a built-in feature that helps you monitor and manage iOS device usage, including the ability to set restrictions on specific apps. If you have the App Store disappearing from iPhone problem, it’s likely due to the restrictions on installing apps. Here are some simple steps to fix this issue.
Step 1: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
Step 2: Enable Content & Privacy Restrictions and then tap on iTunes & App Store Purchases > Installing Apps > check Allow.
Now, exit Settings and you will see the App Store icon on your Home Screen.
Perform a Software Update
App Store disappearing from iPad/iPhone issue might happen because of the outdated system. In this case, you should update your iOS to its latest version. To do so, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Step 2: If an update is available, click Download and Install or Update Now to get the latest update.
Related post: How to Fix the iPhone Frozen During iOS Update Problem.
Reset All Settings
If none of the above methods work, try resetting all settings to fix the App Store missing from iPhone problem. That can restore all settings to their default state, as well as get App Store back to the Home Screen. This operation won’t uninstall apps and delete data on your iPhone.
Step 1: Open Settings > tap on General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 2: Select Reset > Reset All Settings > enter your screen passcode > Reset All Settings again to start the process.
If you want to reset the iPhone to factory settings, please refer to this guide – How to Reset iPhone to Factory Settings? Methods Explained.
Final Words
To conclude, this post presents several reasons and solutions to App Store disappearing from iPhone. If you run into the same problem, read this post and pick one method that suits you. Hope this post can help you out.