How to Hide Apps on iPhone
If you’re looking to tidy up your iPhone’s home screen or keep some apps away from prying eyes, hiding apps can be your go-to solution. It’s easier than you might think! With a few taps and tweaks in your settings, you can make apps disappear from view without deleting them. You can hide apps in folders, use the App Library, or even adjust your settings for more privacy. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make your app organization dreams come true.
How to Hide Apps in iPhone
In this guide, we’ll walk you through several methods for hiding apps on your iPhone. Whether you’re a neat freak or just want some privacy, these steps will help you gain control over your digital landscape.
Step 1: Use Folders to Hide Apps
Organize your apps into folders on the home screen.
To get started, press and hold the app you want to hide until it jiggles. Then, drag it over another app to create a folder. You can put up to 12 pages in one folder, so feel free to hide apps deep within.
Step 2: Access the App Library
Swipe to the last home screen page to find the App Library, where you can locate all your apps sorted by category.
This feature automatically categorizes your apps, so even if you remove them from the home screen, they’re always accessible here.
Step 3: Remove Apps from Home Screen
Select "Remove App" and then "Remove from Home Screen" to ensure the app only appears in the App Library.
By doing this, your app won’t be visible on your main screens, but can still be accessed in the App Library whenever needed.
Step 4: Use Restrictions to Hide Apps
Navigate to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions to enable restrictions for specific apps.
This feature lets you set limitations or completely hide apps based on age ratings or categories, thus adding an extra layer of privacy.
Step 5: Utilize Siri & Search
Disable app suggestions in Settings > Siri & Search by toggling off "Show App" under the app-specific settings.
This will prevent the app from appearing in search results or Siri suggestions, keeping it out of sight when you’re browsing or using voice commands.
After you’ve completed these steps, your selected apps will no longer appear on the home screen, tucked away in folders, or hidden within the App Library and settings. You’ll have a cleaner interface and more privacy.
Tips for Hiding Apps in iPhone
- Experiment with folder names to further disguise your hidden apps.
- Regularly update your App Library to keep it neat and organized.
- Use a passcode on your iPhone for an extra layer of security.
- Periodically review your hidden apps to ensure you still need them concealed.
- Consider setting app usage limits in Screen Time for added privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will hiding apps delete their data?
No, hiding apps will not delete any of their data. The app remains installed and fully functional.
Can I still receive notifications from hidden apps?
Yes, unless you turn off notifications, you will still receive alerts from hidden apps.
How do I find a hidden app later?
You can find hidden apps in the App Library or by using the search function on your iPhone.
Does hiding apps save storage space?
No, hiding apps do not free up storage space as the apps remain installed on your device.
Can I hide apps on all iPhone models?
Most recent iPhone models support these features, but older versions may have limited functionality.
Summary
- Use folders to hide apps.
- Access the App Library for hidden apps.
- Remove apps from the home screen.
- Use restrictions in settings.
- Utilize Siri & Search settings.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPhone can be a game-changer for boosting privacy and decluttering your digital space. Whether through folders, the App Library, or restrictions in settings, these methods give you the power to decide what appears on your home screen. With these steps, you can prevent unnecessary distractions or inquisitive eyes from finding apps you’d rather keep private.
Beyond just hiding apps, this exercise encourages a more intentional use of technology, helping you focus on what truly matters. Consider it a digital spring cleaning, where every app has its place, yet your most important tools are still at your fingertips. If you’ve been pondering how to hide apps in iPhone, now you have the blueprint to get started.
Why not take a moment to give it a try? You’ll find your phone not only looks cleaner but feels more organized, and that’s a win in anyone’s book. Happy organizing!
Matt has been working with WordPress and creating content using this powerful content management system for years. While he has written about many other tech topics, WordPress is one of his favorites.
You can read his full bio here.