macOS store app not available for assignment in HexnodeSolved

Participant
Discussion
2 weeks ago Aug 11, 2026

I’m trying to deploy the Microsoft Windows App to a managed macOS laptop through Hexnode. The same app is already configured and working for a few other users, but for one enrolled Mac I don’t see an option to assign the app or modify its assignment.

The device is active and managed in Hexnode. I was expecting to add the app either from the device actions or by updating the app assignment, but the option doesn’t seem to be available for this device. What should I check?

Replies (3)

Marked SolutionPending Review
Hexnode Expert
2 weeks ago Aug 11, 2026
Marked SolutionPending Review

Hello @ed_evans ,

For macOS store app deployment, first check whether the app has available Apple VPP licenses in Hexnode UEM.

Even if the app is free, Apple requires the organization to acquire license seats for the app in Apple Business before it can be deployed as a managed app. If the VPP license count is zero or all licenses are already assigned, Hexnode UEM will not be able to assign the app to an additional Mac.

Recommended checks:

  1. In Apple Business, go to Apps and Services.
  2. Search for the app, such as Microsoft Windows App.
  3. Acquire the required number of licenses. For free apps, these are $0 licenses.
  4. In Hexnode UEM, go to Admin > Apple Business/School Manager > Apple VPP.
  5. Click Sync to update the VPP license count of the respective VPP account in Hexnode UEM.
  6. After the sync completes, deploy the app using Install Application action or through a Required Apps policy.

Once the VPP license is available in Hexnode UEM, the app should be assignable to the managed Mac.

Regards,
Simon Scott
Hexnode UEM

Marked SolutionPending Review
Participant
2 weeks ago Aug 11, 2026
Marked SolutionPending Review

Ohh, now I get it. I didn’t realize free App Store apps still needed VPP license seats in Apple Business.

Marked SolutionPending Review
Hexnode Expert
2 weeks ago Aug 11, 2026
Marked SolutionPending Review

For macOS App Store apps, Hexnode UEM relies on Apple’s VPP framework for managed deployment. The license is what allows the app to be assigned to a device or user without requiring the end user to sign in with a personal Apple ID.

This also lets the organization retain ownership of the app license and reclaim it later if the device is disenrolled or reassigned.

Save