Step-by-Step Guide to Hide and Lock Apps on iPhone and iPad

It’s well-known that both Android and iOS platforms occasionally adopt features from each other. Nonetheless, one functionality that has eluded Apple for many years is the option to conceal and secure apps. Fortunately, with the introduction of iOS 18, this has finally changed, highlighting Apple’s commitment to privacy and security. This guide will demonstrate how to hide and lock apps on your iPhone and iPad, ensuring that your information remains private from prying eyes.

Locking Apps on iPhone

If your goal is to lock an app on your iPhone or iPad rather than hiding it entirely, this method is for you. If you’re okay with others seeing the app but need to prevent access—possibly due to confidential content—follow the steps outlined below:

Press and hold the app you wish to secure, then click on Require Face ID, and confirm your choice by selecting Require Face ID once more.

This action necessitates a face scan each time you want to open the app.

If you decide later that you want to remove the Face ID or Touch ID requirement, simply press and hold the app, then choose Don’t Require Face ID.

Hiding Apps on Your iPhone

If your intention is merely to remove an app from the home screen of your iPhone, press and hold the app, select Remove App, then tap on Remove from Home Screen. Although the app will vanish from the home screen, it will remain accessible in the App Library.

However, if you wish to ensure that others can’t see the app at all, tap and hold the app you wish to secure, select Require Face ID, then opt for Hide and Require Face ID.

After completing this, the app will be entirely hidden from both your home screen and the App Library. Repeat these steps for any other apps you want to hide.

How to Access Hidden Apps

To find your hidden apps, swipe left on your iPhone’s home screen to enter the App Library. Scroll to the bottom and tap on the Hidden folder. You will need to use Face ID or Touch ID to access this folder.

Simply tap on the app you wish to open within the folder.

Unhiding Apps

Should you choose to unhide an app, navigate to the Hidden folder in the App Library. Press and hold the app you want to reveal, and select Don’t Require Face ID to restore its visibility.

Tip: Hiding Apps from Search and Suggestions

There might be instances where you prefer an app to be absent from Spotlight Search or do not wish to receive suggestions related to it. To achieve this, follow these steps:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad, tap on Apple Intelligence & Siri from the list, scroll down and select Apps.

Locate the app and disable all toggles.

The app will not be visible in searches or suggestions, yet it will still be accessible via the App Library.

Everyone has certain apps on their phones that contain private and sensitive information, be it banking applications or notes. By hiding or locking these apps, you can prevent unauthorized access by others using your device. It’s also an effective way to keep social media and gaming apps out of reach for children, helping to minimize their screen time.

Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by Sumukh Rao.