Michael Simmons, co-founder of Flexibits reports that Apple no longer allows people who have received a refund for apps to reinstall or update the app.

Though it is not very straightforward, it is possible to request a refund for an app. Previously, users were able to install or update the app even after getting the refund, which seemed a little unfair from a developer’s point of view.

Apple seems to have fixed the issue as iOS now gives you the following error message:

Update Unavailable with This Apple ID

This update is not available for this Apple ID either because it was bought by a different user or the item was refunded or cancelled.

Some users used the refund method as a loophole to get paid apps for free, so developers will be happy to see that it has been finally closed. Apple seems to have closed the loophole on the Mac App Store as well.

Thanks Alan for the tip!