Hiding an app on your iPhone can be useful if you want to keep certain apps out of sight or maintain a clutter-free home screen. To do this, you can either hide apps from the home screen, remove them from search, or place them in a folder. By following these methods, you can keep your app usage private or simplify how your home screen looks without deleting the apps entirely.
How to Hide an App on iPhone
In this section, you’ll learn how to hide an app on your iPhone using different techniques. Each method provides a way to keep your apps discreetly tucked away or simply out of sight.
Step 1: Hide the App from Your Home Screen
Tap and hold the app icon until a menu appears, then select "Remove App" and choose "Remove from Home Screen."
By doing this, the app is removed from your home screen but remains accessible via the App Library. This way, you can still use the app without it being visible right away.
Step 2: Use the App Library
Swipe to the right past your last home screen page until you reach the App Library, where all apps are stored alphabetically.
The App Library acts as a hidden vault for your apps. Even if they’re not on your home screen, they’re still just a swipe away, neatly organized and ready to use.
Step 3: Place the App in a Folder
Drag the app into a folder with other apps, then move it to the second or third page of that folder.
Organizing your apps into a folder and then swiping them to another page within the folder effectively hides them from immediate view, making them harder to find casually.
Step 4: Turn Off App Suggestions and Search
Go to Settings > Siri & Search, and turn off "Show App" for the app you want to hide.
Disabling app suggestions and search means the app won’t appear when you use the search bar or Siri, adding an extra layer of privacy to your hidden app.
Step 5: Limit App Visibility in the App Store
In Settings, tap on Screen Time, then Content & Privacy Restrictions. Enable restrictions and adjust app visibility settings.
Using Screen Time restrictions can help keep certain apps from being downloaded again, ensuring they remain hidden even in the App Store.
After completing these steps, your chosen app will be hidden from plain sight, making it less accessible to others who might use your phone. The app is still installed, so you can easily find it when needed.
Tips for Hiding an App on iPhone
- To easily access hidden apps in the App Library, use the search bar at the top of the library screen.
- Regularly update your apps and iOS to ensure new features and security settings are available.
- Consider using widgets to further customize and declutter your home screen.
- Review and adjust your privacy settings regularly to maintain control over your app visibility.
- Use a password or biometric security for an extra layer of protection for your hidden apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hide an app without deleting it?
Yes, hiding it from the home screen or placing it in a folder keeps the app installed.
Will hiding an app affect its performance?
No, hiding an app will not affect how it functions or performs on your iPhone.
How can I find a hidden app later?
You can find it in the App Library or use the search function to locate it quickly.
Are hidden apps also hidden from the App Store?
No, they remain searchable and downloadable from the App Store unless you set restrictions.
Can I hide multiple apps at once?
Yes, you can move multiple apps into folders or remove them from the home screen in batches.
Summary
- Remove app from the home screen.
- Access apps via App Library.
- Place app in a folder.
- Disable app suggestions and search.
- Adjust Screen Time restrictions.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPhone is a clever way to maintain a clean, organized, and private digital environment. Whether you’re aiming to keep certain apps away from prying eyes or simply want to streamline your home screen, these methods offer simple yet effective solutions. It’s just like tidying up your room – everything is still there, but neatly tucked away where only you know to find it.
Having this level of control over your app visibility can be empowering. It allows you to use your phone in a way that best suits your lifestyle and privacy needs. Additionally, understanding these features means you can adapt to new updates and changes with ease.
Next time you want to lend your phone to someone or just want a break from the digital clutter, remember these tips for hiding apps. They could be just the trick you need. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how much smoother your iPhone experience can be.
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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