Feature Request: Add a Hint to Use `purchase` When `install` Fails
@rgoldberg is already working on this.
Since Sep 7, 2026.
- Dominant language
- Swift
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Description
Problem(s) addressed
I know from Homebrew that I have to use brew install for a new app. With mas, however, I have to use mas get or mas purchase for an app I haven't acquired before.
When I try to install an app that I haven't acquired before, I get this error:
mas install 6758355178
Error: No downloads initiated for ADAM ID 6758355178
The App Store then shows this message:
Für diesen Apple Account stehen keine Artikel zum erneuten Laden zur. Dieser Artikel kann mit diesem Apple Account nicht erneut geladen werden, da er von einem:einer anderen Benutzer:in gekauft oder zurückerstattet oder storniert wurde.
Translated:
There are no items available to redownload for this Apple Account. This item cannot be redownloaded with this Apple Account because it was purchased by a different user, or it has been refunded or cancelled.
I eventually found out that the solution is to use mas purchase.
I keep running into this because my first instinct is always to use install instead of purchase. A small hint in the error message would be very helpful.
Proposed solution(s)
If mas install fails with this error, add a hint suggesting mas purchase:
mas install 6758355178
Error: No downloads initiated for ADAM ID 6758355178
Hint: Maybe you haven't acquired this app before? Try instead:
mas purchase 6758355178
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