Apps have become a vital part of modern life. Sometimes, however, you might want to hide certain apps. Hiding apps is a great way to maintain privacy, reduce screen clutter or prevent accidental usage. This guide will show you how to hide apps from different devices. It includes Android, iOS and third-party methods.
WHY HIDE AN APP?
It’s important to know why you may want to hide a particular app before diving into the steps:
Privacy Protection: Protect your personal apps from prying eyes.
Declutter Your Home Screen: Reduce the number of icons on your device to simplify its interface.
Parental Control: Parents can restrict access to certain apps for children.
Enhanced Productivity: Hide non-essential applications to minimize distractions.
HOW TO HIDE APPS FROM ANDROID DEVICES
1. Using built-in features (Stock android or One UI)
Android devices have built-in features to hide applications:
Samsung Devices (One UI):
- Open the Settings App.
- Home Screen Settings can be accessed by clicking on the Home Screen.
- Select Hide Apps.
- Select the apps that you wish to hide, and then tap Apply.
Other Android Devices – Check to see if the launcher of your device (like MIUI, ColorOS or ColorOS) offers a hidden apps feature.
2. Third-Party Launchers
You can also use third-party launchers if your device does not have built-in hiding options.
Nova Launcher:
- Install Nova Launcher via the Play Store.
- Press and hold the app that you wish to hide from the home screen.
- Select Edit > Hide Apps.
3. App Lock or AppVault
AppLock and Vault are great apps to hide or password protect your apps.
4. Disabling pre-installed apps
Apps for system:
- Click on Settings > Apps.
- Tap Disable after selecting the app. The app icon will be removed from your home screen and the app drawer.
HOW TO HIDE APPS FROM IOS DEVICES
1. Using App Library
Beginning with iOS 14
- The App Library is located at the far right side of the screen.
- Remove the app:
- Press the icon for the app and hold it down.
- Tap Remove App from Home Screen. Apps can still be accessed via the App library.
2. Hide Apps (Restrictions in Settings)
- Click on Settings > Screen Time.
- Select Allowed Apps from the Content & Privacy Restriction menu.
- Hide apps by turning them off (works with system apps such as Safari).
3. Using Folders
It’s not necessary to hide all apps.
- Create a folder and drag the app into it. You can even hide it deep inside folders.
- Third-Party Solutions
- Consider apps that manage your app collection for both Android and iOS.
- App Hiders – Tools such as Calculator Vault can make an app look like another thing, like a calculator.
- Secure Folder (Samsung). This allows you to create a private area for your apps and files.
CONCLUSION
Hide apps to enhance your privacy and reduce clutter in your digital space. But it’s important to remember that hiding does not equal deleting. Hidden apps remain on your device, and they may still appear in certain settings or search results. Consider your personal preferences and device type to determine the best hiding method. Hide apps is not a difficult task, whether you are a tech savvy user or a novice. Have you ever tried to hide apps from your device? Comment below to share your experience or any additional tips.