How to Hide Apps on iPhone

by MUNEER SHEIKH

How to Hide Apps on iPhone

In this digital age, smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. With the vast array of apps available for download, our iPhones are filled with various applications for different purposes. However, there might be certain apps that you prefer to keep private, away from prying eyes or for personal use only. Thankfully, Apple provides a built-in feature that allows you to hide apps on your iPhone discreetly. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to hide apps on your iPhone effectively.

I. Understanding the Need to Hide Apps

Why Hide Apps?

Sometimes, there are apps that you may not want others to access or see. It could be financial apps, private messaging apps, or even social media apps that you wish to keep away from the curious glances of friends or family members. Hiding these apps can provide an extra layer of privacy and security.

The Benefits of Hiding Apps

Hiding apps not only enhances your privacy but also helps in decluttering your home screen. With numerous apps installed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and hiding less frequently used apps can help you focus on the ones you use regularly.

II. Hide Apps on iPhone on iPhone

Using App Library

With the iOS 14 update, Apple introduced the App Library, which provides a convenient way to hide apps from your home screen without deleting them.

  1. Accessing App Library

Swipe right on your home screen until you reach the App Library, or you can swipe down on the home screen to open the search bar, and the App Library will be visible at the top.

  1. Hiding Apps in App Library

Press and hold the app icon you wish to hide until a menu appears. Select “Remove App” and then choose “Remove from Home Screen.” The app will now only be accessible through the App Library.

Creating App Folders

Another method to hide apps on your iPhone is by organizing them into folders.

  1. Creating a Folder

Press and hold an app icon until all the apps start to jiggle. Then, drag and drop one app onto another to create a folder.

  1. Adding Apps to the Folder

Drag and drop the apps you want to hide into the newly created folder.

  1. Placing Folder in an Unobtrusive Location

Move the folder to a secondary home screen or a less frequented area on your current home screen.

III. Using Restrictions

Enabling Restrictions

Apple offers a feature called “Restrictions” that allows you to control access to certain apps and features on your iPhone.

  1. Accessing Restrictions

Go to “Settings” on your iPhone, then tap on “Screen Time,” and choose “Content & Privacy Restrictions.”

  1. Enabling Restrictions

Turn on “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and set a passcode that you’ll use to access the settings.

Hide Apps on iPhone through Restrictions

  1. App Allowances

Tap on “Allowed Apps” and disable the apps you wish to hide.

  1. Disabling Installing and Deleting Apps

In “Content & Privacy Restrictions,” go to “iTunes & App Store Purchases” and choose “Deleting Apps” and “Installing Apps” to prevent the hidden apps from being accessed or installed.

IV. Using Third-Party Apps

App-Hiding Apps

There are third-party apps available on the App Store that specialize in hiding apps and providing extra security.

  1. Search for App-Hiding Apps

Look for reputable app-hiding applications on the App Store and read reviews to find the most suitable one for your needs.

  1. Download and Install

Install the chosen app-hiding app from the App Store and follow the instructions to set it up.

  1. Move Apps into the App-Hiding App

Move the apps you wish to hide into the app-hiding application to keep them private.

Conclusion

Keeping certain apps hidden on your iPhone is essential for maintaining your privacy and organizing your device efficiently. Whether you use the built-in features like App Library and App Folders or opt for third-party app-hiding apps, you now have the knowledge to discreetly manage your app collection. Enjoy a clutter-free home screen and peace of mind knowing your private apps remain private.

FAQs

  • Can I unhide the apps later?
  • Yes, you can easily unhide the apps by reversing the steps mentioned in the article. For App Library, drag the app from the App Library to the home screen. For folders, simply drag the app out of the folder. And for Restrictions, go to “Settings,” tap on “Screen Time,” enter your passcode, and enable the previously disabled apps.
  • Will hiding apps affect their functionality?
  • Hiding apps through App Library or folders will not affect their functionality. However, using third-party app-hiding apps may have certain limitations depending on the application.
  • Can I hide pre-installed Apple apps?
  • No, the built-in Apple apps cannot be hidden using the methods mentioned in this article. They can only be hidden from the home screen but will still be accessible through the App Library or search.
  • Is it safe to use third-party app-hiding apps?
  • To ensure your privacy and data security, only download and install reputable third-party apps from the App Store. Read reviews and do some research before selecting an app-hiding application.
  • Will hiding apps improve my iPhone’s performance?
  • Hiding apps itself may not significantly improve performance. However, organizing and decluttering your home screen could make it easier to find the apps you need, potentially enhancing user experience and navigation.

Blog Credit: https://bit.ly/J_Umma

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