Re: why does the Apple Store or play store ask for my billing and payment information
just to download or update an app even if it’s free
I don't know why Apple does what it does. (Most businesses have their own Terms and Conditions.)
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Seems Apple requires you have a payment method listed in your Apple Account for the first time you use the App Store or iTunes, even if you only download free apps.
You might want to see which payment methods Apple accepts in your country or region:
Payment methods that you can use with your Apple Account - Apple Support
How to: Add a payment method to your Apple Account - Apple Support
See what to do: If you need to change or update your Apple Account payment method - Apple Support
(NB: if you have no active subscriptions:
You can: Remove a payment method from your Apple Account - Apple Support
If needed: More info. / support / contact options etc.:
Billing and Subscriptions support website:
Subscriptions and Billing - Official Apple Support