Everyone has experienced this: you’re on a dating app or checking your bank account when all of a sudden, someone glances at your device. Ouch! You’ve come to the correct spot if you want to hide your banking app or Hinge. With the appropriate tips, hiding apps on your iPhone may be simple. This tutorial will show you how to use a variety of techniques to hide those apps and protect your privacy
Table of Contents
Why Hide Apps?
Let’s get to know why you should hide the apps:
Privacy Concerns
Let’s start by discussing the reasons you might want to conceal apps. One important factor is privacy. Perhaps you want to keep your dating app a secret from the public. Alternatively, you could wish to maintain confidentiality when processing sensitive financial data. For whatever reason, you may safeguard your privacy and feel more at ease by hiding apps.
Avoiding Unwanted Attention
Another reason could be avoiding unwanted attention. Maybe you’re showing someone your phone and don’t want to accidentally reveal certain apps. Or you’re at work and want to keep your apps out of sight. Hiding apps can help you control what others see and keep your phone looking tidy.
Using Built-in iOS Features
iOS has some handy built-in features that can help you hide apps without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into the options you’ve got at your disposal.
Hide Apps with the App Library
The App Library is a revolutionary feature that was unveiled in iOS 14. Your apps will be automatically categorized and searchable without taking up space on your home screen. You can utilize it to learn how to hide apps on iPhone:
- Once you’re in the App Library, swipe left.
- Look for the app that you wish to conceal.
How to Hide an App?
The actions that you need to take are as follows:
- To view the context menu, long-press the app icon.
- Choose “Remove App.”
- Select “Remove from Home Screen.”
This maintains the program available in the program Library but removes it from your home screen.
Take Apps Off of the Start Screen
An app is not deleted when its icon is removed from your home screen; it is only hidden from immediate view. Press and hold the app icon.
- Select “Remove App.”
- Select “Remove from Home Screen.”
Put Apps Back on the Home Screen
You can always re-add the app if you decide to change your mind. Locate the app in the App Library, give it a long tap, and choose “Add to Home Screen.”
Using Folders to Hide Apps
Another nifty trick is using folders to hide apps. It’s like tucking your apps away in a neat little package.
Steps to Creating a Folder
- Long-press an app icon until it jiggles.
- Drag it over to another app icon. This creates a folder.
- Name the folder something inconspicuous.
Moving Apps into the Folder
To hide an app, drag it within the folder. As many apps as you like can be added.
Using Folders to Organize Hidden Apps
Give your folder a name that isn’t too obvious. “Utilities” or “Extras” are two examples of useful categories.
Using Multiple Pages
You can create multiple pages within the folder. This helps you organize more apps and keep them out of sight.
Utilizing Screen Time Restrictions
Screen Time isn’t just for limiting usage—it’s also a tool for hiding apps. Here’s how you can use it to keep your apps from view.
Setting Up App Restrictions
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Screen Time.
- Select “App Limits” or “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”
Choosing Apps to Restrict
You can restrict specific apps by setting limits or hiding them from view. This method is effective if you want to prevent access rather than just hiding icons.
Benefits of Using Screen Time Restrictions
Using Screen Time not only hides apps but also helps manage app usage. It’s a double win for privacy and productivity.
Searching for Hidden Apps
Even with apps hidden, you might still need to find them. Luckily, iOS has built-in search features to help you locate them.
Using iOS Search Feature
To open the search bar on your home screen, swipe down. Once you type the app’s name, it will show up in the search results.
Hidden Apps in App Library
Search within the App Library if you’ve hidden apps there. Just type the app’s name in the search bar, and it should pop up.
Third-Party Apps for Hiding Apps
For those who want an extra layer of stealth, third-party apps can be handy. Here’s what you need to know.
Popular App Hiders
Numerous third-party applications are made expressly to conceal other applications. Several well-liked choices are:
- App Hider: Hides apps behind a password-protected interface.
- Hide My Apps: This lets you hide and lock apps with a PIN.
Features of App Hiders
- Password Protection: Keep your hidden apps secure.
- App Lock: Prevent unwanted access to particular applications.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Third-Party Applications:
- Pros: Extra features like personalization and password security.
- Cons: May require extra setup and could have security risks.
Security Considerations
When hiding apps, security is key. Make sure you choose the right method for your needs.
Choosing the Right Method
Consider your privacy needs and how discreet you want to be. Built-in options are generally safer, but third-party apps offer extra features.
Keeping Your Apps Safe
Keep an eye on your app permissions and regularly check your privacy settings. It’s also essential to keep the most recent security fixes installed on your iPhone.
Conclusion
An easy yet powerful technique to protect your privacy and keep your iPhone organized is to hide apps. There is a solution that works for you, whether you employ third-party apps, folders, screen time limits, or built-in capabilities. So feel free to hide your banking app or Hinge from view and take advantage of a more private online experience!
FAQs
Can I Hide Apps Permanently on My iPhone?
Yes, you can hide apps using the App Library or Screen Time restrictions. However, these methods don’t delete the apps; they just make them less visible.
How Do I Access a Hidden App?
You can utilize the iOS search function or look for the app in the App Library. You might have to change the settings to access it if Screen Time has hidden it.