When the Target app not working issue strikes, millions of U.S. shoppers feel the impact immediately. As of December 19, 2025, several users across the country have reported intermittent outages and login errors while using the Target mobile app, particularly on iOS devices. Verified reports from Downdetector and user feedback on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) confirm that the problem started earlier this morning and has continued throughout the day, affecting browsing, checkout, and account access functions.
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Overview of the Current Target App Outage
Early this morning, Target customers began noticing slow loading screens, blank product pages, and an inability to add items to carts. By mid-morning Eastern Time, Downdetector’s outage graph showed a sharp spike in complaints, indicating a widespread issue.
According to recent verified user posts, the most common problems include:
- Failure to load the home screen
- “Session expired” login loops
- Errors while processing mobile payments
- App freezing during checkout
While the Target website remains largely operational, many shoppers prefer the convenience of the app for same-day orders, Drive Up pickups, and Target Circle deals. The app malfunction has, therefore, caused considerable frustration for loyal users relying on time-sensitive shopping and holiday orders.
What Target Has Said So Far
As of this afternoon, Target’s official X account (@Target) acknowledged the issue, confirming that engineers are “actively investigating” app connectivity and performance errors. The company stated that there is no evidence of a security breach or data exposure—clarifying that the problem appears to be a temporary backend failure affecting app functionality, not user accounts.
Target also encouraged users to continue shopping through its desktop or mobile web browser as an alternative while the team works on restoring full app performance.
Which Users Are Most Affected
Reports show that iPhone users running iOS 18.2 have encountered the most severe disruptions. Android users are affected to a lesser extent, though some have also noted checkout delays.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most recent verified user data as of today:
| Platform | Percentage of Reports | Common Issue |
|---|---|---|
| iOS (iPhone/iPad) | 64% | App freezing or crashing |
| Android | 25% | Checkout and payment errors |
| Other (tablet, emulator) | 11% | Login session timeout |
This aligns with similar issues Target faced earlier in July 2025, when a backend system update temporarily caused the app to crash for select users.
How the Outage Is Affecting U.S. Shoppers
Target’s app is deeply integrated into the shopping routines of millions. With holiday shopping in full swing, many customers rely on features like Drive Up, Order Pickup, and Target Circle rewards.
The current downtime has caused inconvenience for:
- Shoppers trying to place last-minute Christmas orders.
- Users attempting to use digital gift cards and wallet payments.
- Customers relying on Drive Up for same-day grocery and gift pickups.
Some users also reported that the Target Wallet feature isn’t syncing with saved payment methods, causing failed transactions at checkout.
Verified Workarounds That Are Helping Users
Until the Target app is fully restored, users have reported several temporary solutions that appear to help. These fixes have been confirmed by multiple users today and are safe to try:
- Use Target.com via Mobile Browser – The web version remains operational and allows logins, purchases, and reward redemptions.
- Clear App Cache (Android) – Go to Settings → Apps → Target → Storage → Clear Cache. This refreshes outdated data and often fixes looping errors.
- Reinstall the App – Deleting and reinstalling the app resets the local session. This has restored functionality for some iOS users.
- Disable VPNs or Proxies – Some users found that VPN interference caused session errors. Disconnecting temporarily may improve connectivity.
- Switch Networks – Moving from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa can bypass certain connection routing issues.
Possible Technical Cause Behind the Outage
While Target hasn’t released a full technical explanation yet, experts speculate that the issue stems from a backend synchronization failure following a server update. Recent code deployment logs (visible through public API status monitors) indicate irregular response times between the app’s shopping cart API and the main user account service.
The timing—right before peak holiday shopping—suggests Target’s engineering team may have rolled out a performance optimization that unintentionally caused app instability.
However, there is no indication of a cybersecurity incident or malicious activity.
Impact on Target Circle Rewards and Payments
A major concern for frequent Target users is the potential loss of Target Circle rewards, digital coupons, and stored payment methods. As of now, Target has confirmed that all user data and saved payment options remain secure.
Users who cannot access their rewards via the app can log in on Target.com, where balances and coupons appear unaffected. Purchases made on the website still count toward Circle earnings.
Target also clarified that once the app is restored, all account data will automatically sync with the latest online activity—ensuring no rewards are lost.
Response from U.S. Customers
Social media has seen thousands of posts under hashtags like #TargetAppDown and #TargetAppNotWorking, with many customers sharing screenshots of error messages. While some users expressed frustration over checkout failures, others praised Target’s transparency in acknowledging the issue quickly.
One verified user in Texas shared:
“Tried to grab a few gifts this morning but the app kept freezing at checkout. At least Target confirmed it’s not just me.”
Another shopper from California noted:
“Switched to the website and got my order through fine. Hoping the app’s back soon—it’s just easier to use.”
How Target Has Handled Previous App Downtime
Target has a solid record of addressing technical outages efficiently. Past incidents in 2024 and mid-2025 were typically resolved within 6–8 hours. The company’s IT infrastructure team often releases updates to app stores soon after identifying the issue’s root cause.
If history repeats, users can expect a fix within the same timeframe, possibly by this evening.
Monitoring the Situation
As of 3:00 PM Eastern Time on December 19, the Target app remains partially functional. Some users report being able to browse but not complete purchases. Downdetector’s outage graph shows a gradual decline in reports, suggesting the recovery process is already underway.
Target’s customer support team continues to respond to user messages through social channels, confirming progress on a permanent fix.
Shoppers should watch for an official statement once the update is live. The company typically issues patch notes via the App Store and Google Play Store release pages.
Expert Insights on Large-Scale Retail App Outages
Retail tech experts point out that holiday seasons are particularly prone to mobile app overload. A surge in simultaneous users can overload servers, even in well-prepared infrastructures. When backend services like inventory, payment, and customer authentication systems fail to sync, widespread errors like the ones affecting the Target app can occur.
The best way for companies to minimize future disruptions includes:
- Conducting load tests before peak traffic days.
- Implementing real-time redundancy systems.
- Using edge caching to distribute user requests efficiently.
Given Target’s robust IT history, it’s expected that the retailer will take measures to strengthen app reliability heading into 2026.
When Will the Target App Work Again?
As of now, Target has not provided an official ETA for full restoration. However, app store monitoring tools indicate that an update (version 2025.12.4) is in testing and may roll out soon to both iOS and Android platforms.
This update will likely include:
- Bug fixes for session errors.
- Backend stability improvements.
- Enhancements for smoother checkout experiences.
Users are encouraged to keep the app updated to receive the fix automatically once available.
The Bottom Line
The Target app not working issue has caused understandable disruption, especially for U.S. shoppers in the midst of the holiday season. The good news is that Target’s technical team is addressing the outage quickly, and user reports already show signs of gradual recovery.
For now, shoppers can continue placing orders through the Target.com website, which remains fully operational. If all goes as expected, the app should return to full functionality later today or early tomorrow.
Stay tuned for updates and share your experience in the comments — are you still facing issues with the Target app today?