How do I resolve an endless loop when updating the App Store app on my iPad?

Question

How do I resolve an endless loop when updating the App Store app on my iPad?

When I try to open the Apple Store app on my oldish iPad Pro, I get the message:

“The Apple Store has been updated. Download the new version on the App Store”

If I click on “Update” it takes me to the App Store, shows the Apple Store app, but the only option is “Open”.

This just takes me back to the message: “The Apple Store has been updated. Download the new version on the App Store”. So it’s just a loop.

In my iPad Pro’s settings it says that “iPadOS is up to date (17.7.10)”. What are my options here?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: IN A LOOP. If I try to open the Apple Store app on my iPad, it asks me to update it in the App Store. App Store only offers to Open my installed version, which again asks me to update it…. Ad infinitum.

Posted on Nov 20, 2025 8:08 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Phil0124

Level 10

216,308 points

Nov 20, 2025 9:20 AM in response to Frozen Pumpkin

The newer Apple Store app requires a newer iPadOS version your iPad cannot run, you won't be able to access it unfortunately.

That's why you are getting the message to update the Apple Store app, but it won't let you access the new version since it needs a newer iPadOS version.

Basically, you need a newer iPad to get the newer Apple Store app.

With that said, you can go to https://apple.com and shop there instead of using the app.

Reply

Answer 2

Nov 20, 2025 9:03 AM in response to Phil0124

Thanks Phil. I attempted to do as you suggested, deleted the Apple Store app, but when I tried to download it again using the App Store app, I get the message: “This application requires IOS 18.0 or later. You must update to IOS 18.0 in order to download and use this application.” iPads don’t even use IOS any more, they use IPadOS. Anyway, my IpadPro is on 17.7.10 and it thinks it’s up to date. A bit ironic if my otherwise perfectly functioning iPadPro has acquired a certain amount of obsolescence due to a lack of updates from Apple (for legitimate business reasons, no doubt) but then Apple doesn’t let me browse for a possible replacement purchase on their “shopping designed around you” Apple Store app.

Reply

Answer 3

Phil0124

Level 10

216,308 points

Nov 20, 2025 8:21 AM in response to Frozen Pumpkin

Delete the "Apple" store app from your iPad, and then go into the App Store and download it again.

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-store/id375380948

Reply