Direct answer first: There are several common causes for the M&S app not working, and several quick fixes you can try. If you’d like, I can tailor steps to your device (iOS or Android) and what you’re seeing (crashing, login errors, scans not working, etc.). Likely causes
- Service outages or platform-wide issues. Large outages can affect apps and websites even if the Brand’s own site appears fine. This is especially plausible if multiple channels (app, website, loyalty) are affected simultaneously.
- App version or device compatibility. If the app is outdated or your device’s OS is too old/new for the current app build, features can fail or the app may not launch.
- Connectivity and permissions. Poor or unstable internet, or required permissions (location, camera, storage) not granted, can cause scanning, login, or storefront features to fail.
- In-store systems or account services. Some issues relate to in-store devices or backend services (e.g., loyalty, account syncing) rather than the app itself.
- Regional or account-specific problems. Some functions (like loyalty stamps, order history, or payment options) may behave differently depending on region or account status, sometimes temporarily disabled during maintenance or incidents.
Practical steps to try now
- Check for outages and official updates
- Visit the M&S help and support pages or status updates for cyber incidents or service status to see if there’s a known outage. If Microsoft or backend services are affected, the issue may be broader than the app.
- Update the app and device software
- Ensure the app is updated to the latest version in the App Store or Google Play Store. Also verify your device OS is up to date.
- Clear cache/data and reinstall
- On Android: Settings > Apps > M&S > Storage > Clear cache (and if needed Clear storage). Then reinstall the app from the store. On iOS: temporarily offload the app or delete and reinstall, which can resolve corrupted data.
- Verify permissions and network
- Confirm location, camera (for scanning), and storage permissions are allowed, and that a stable Wi‑Fi or mobile data connection is active.
- Try alternative access
- If you’re trying to scan or shop via the app, try using the website on a browser to complete essential tasks (shopping, orders, loyalty). Sometimes services recover at different times across channels.
If you share specifics
- Device type (iPhone, Android tablet/phone)
- OS version
- App version
- Exact symptom (crash on launch, login error code, scan not working, freezes, etc.)
- Any recent changes (new device, OS update, network change)
I can then give you a step-by-step fix plan tailored to your setup and help determine whether the issue is likely local (your device or connection) or a broader outage.
