Hiding apps on your iPhone is a nifty trick, letting you keep certain apps away from prying eyes or simply declutter your home screen. You can do this by using built-in iPhone features like hiding entire app pages and using the App Library. Alternatively, you can leverage the Screen Time settings to restrict app visibility. This guide will walk you through these methods step-by-step, ensuring your apps remain tucked away until you need them.
How to Hide Apps on iPhone
In this section, we’ll go over different methods to hide apps on your iPhone. Whether you’re looking to keep personal apps out of sight or just want a cleaner home screen, these steps will show you how.
Step 1: Use App Library to Hide Apps
Move the app to the App Library by removing it from the home screen.
To do this, press and hold the app you want to hide until a menu pops up. Choose "Remove from Home Screen." Don’t worry; this just moves the app to the App Library, where it’s still accessible but not immediately visible.
Step 2: Hide Entire App Pages
Remove entire app pages if you have multiple apps to hide.
Press and hold a blank area on your home screen until it enters "jiggle mode." Tap the dots at the bottom of the screen to view all your app pages. Uncheck the pages you wish to hide, then tap "Done." This method is great if you want to hide a bunch of apps at once.
Step 3: Use Screen Time to Restrict Apps
Limit apps using Screen Time to make them disappear from the home screen.
Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. Enable restrictions and select "Allowed Apps." Deselect the apps you want to hide. They’ll vanish from the home screen and only reappear when you change the settings back.
Step 4: Create a Disguised Folder
Hide apps in plain sight by placing them in a folder with unrelated apps.
Create a new folder and place the app you want to hide inside with other innocuous apps. Name the folder something innocuous as well. This is a simple way to disguise apps without actually hiding them.
Step 5: Use Search to Access Hidden Apps
Access any hidden app quickly using the search feature.
Simply swipe down on the home screen to bring up the search bar. Type in the app’s name, and it should appear in the search results, letting you open it without needing to navigate through the App Library or folders.
After you’ve completed these steps, your chosen apps will be hidden from plain view, making your iPhone home screen look tidier and less cluttered. When you need them, they’re still accessible either by searching or through the App Library.
Tips for Hiding Apps on iPhone
- Regularly check your App Library to ensure your hidden apps are still there.
- Use a passcode for additional security in Screen Time restrictions.
- Arrange your apps by category in folders to make them less noticeable.
- Keep your iOS updated, as new features might provide additional hiding options.
- Consider using widgets to replace apps you often need but don’t want visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I permanently delete apps from the home screen?
No, removing them from the home screen only moves them to the App Library. You’ll need to delete the app entirely to remove it from your iPhone.
Is it possible to hide pre-installed apps?
Yes, you can use Screen Time restrictions to hide pre-installed apps on your iPhone.
Will hiding apps affect how they function?
No, hiding apps doesn’t affect their function. They will still receive updates and notifications unless you’ve changed those settings.
Can someone else access hidden apps?
If someone knows how to search for apps or access the App Library, they can find hidden apps. Using a passcode can help prevent this.
Do hidden apps use data?
Yes, hidden apps will use data unless you disable their background app refresh or cellular data access.
Summary
- Move the app to the App Library.
- Remove entire app pages.
- Use Screen Time to restrict apps.
- Create a disguised folder.
- Use search to access hidden apps.
Conclusion
Mastering how to hide apps on your iPhone can make your digital life more organized and secure. While these steps ensure apps are out of sight, they remain accessible whenever needed. It’s like having a secret compartment in your desk—everything is still there; it’s just not visible to everyone.
This guide offers a range of options to suit different needs, from hiding apps entirely to simply tucking them away in the App Library. As we continue to rely on our devices for more and more of our daily tasks, having a clean, clutter-free home screen can make a world of difference.
Remember to explore all the possibilities your iPhone offers. Updates often bring new features, so keeping your device up-to-date could provide even more options for managing your apps. Until then, try these methods out, and see which one works best for you. Your phone, your rules!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing technology how-to articles and tutorials for over a decade. He has extensive experience in information technology both in small business and as a consultant.
His articles have appeared on dozens of websites and been read millions of times.
He covers many different topics concerning technology, but focuses primarily on smartphones, consumer software, and consumer electronics.
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