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You can skip inputting payment information when you set it up with an iTunes account.

This. Otherwise a lot of Germans wouldn't be able to use Apple devices. Credit cards are not very common here, but you can purchase iTunes prepaid cards at many chain stores.

Not if you want to install apps, and if you don't want to jailbreak.

Is it really that much of a hassle, though? A lot of services have my email and credit card.

I'm still appalled that credit cards are so unavoidable for internet payment. Although in this particular case, credit cards' ability to refund your money in case of a scam should fix this problem. Why hasn't that happened?

Totally agree. Digital payments are a mess. Sadly, everyone thinks they have the answer - solutions looking for a problem.

Apple Support Article, showing how on iOS and MacOS, "Create or use your Apple ID without a payment method":

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204034

Pretty sure you can use gift cards or a debit card instead though I haven't tried it myself.

You don't even need that. You can select 'None'.