Want to keep certain apps on your Android phone out of sight? Whether it’s for privacy or just to keep things tidy, hiding apps can be a useful trick. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods to hide apps on different Android devices, from built-in settings to third-party apps.

Key Takeaways

• You can hide apps using built-in settings on many Android devices like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus.
• Third-party launchers such as Nova Launcher offer additional features to hide apps.
• App-hider applications provide a straightforward way to conceal apps and enhance security.
• Creating secure folders can keep your sensitive apps and data safe.
• Guest Mode is a handy feature to hide apps when sharing your device with others.

Using Built-In Settings to Hide Apps

Hiding apps on your Android device can be done easily using the built-in settings. This method doesn’t require any third-party apps or launchers. Here’s how you can do it:

Accessing the Settings Menu

First, open your Android’s Settings. You can usually find the Settings icon in your app drawer or by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear icon. This is where you’ll start the process to hide your apps.

Navigating to Home Screen Settings

Once you’re in the Settings menu, scroll down and look for the Home Screen settings. This option might be named differently depending on your device, but it’s generally under the Display or Home Screen section. Tap on it to proceed.

Selecting and Hiding Apps

In the Home Screen settings, you should see an option to hide apps. Tap on this option, and you’ll be presented with a list of all the apps installed on your device. Select the apps you want to hide by checking the boxes next to their names. Once you’ve made your selections, confirm your choices, and the apps will be hidden from your home screen and app drawer.

Tip: If you ever want to unhide the apps, simply return to the same settings and uncheck the boxes next to the apps you want to make visible again.

Hiding Apps with Third-Party Launchers

Using third-party launchers is a great way to hide apps on your Android device. These launchers not only help you customize your home screen but also offer features to keep certain apps out of sight. Here’s how you can do it:

Installing a Third-Party Launcher

First, you need to install a third-party launcher from the Google Play Store. Some popular options include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, and Microsoft Launcher. Nova Launcher is especially well-known for its customization features.

1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for the launcher you want to install.
3. Tap ‘Install’ and wait for the installation to complete.
4. Set the new launcher as your default home screen.

Configuring the Launcher to Hide Apps

Once you have installed the launcher, follow these steps to hide apps:

1. Open the launcher settings. This is usually done by long-pressing on the home screen and selecting ‘Settings’ or ‘Launcher Settings.’
2. Navigate to the ‘App Drawer’ or ‘Hidden Apps’ section.
3. Select the apps you want to hide from the list.
4. Confirm your selection, and the apps will be hidden from your home screen and app drawer.

Popular Launchers for Hiding Apps

Here are some popular launchers that offer app-hiding features:

• Nova Launcher: Offers a premium version that allows you to hide apps from the app drawer.
• Apex Launcher: Another great option with similar features to Nova Launcher.
• Microsoft Launcher: Integrates well with Windows devices and offers app-hiding capabilities.

Using third-party launchers can be a simple and effective way to keep your apps private. Just make sure to choose a reputable launcher to avoid any security risks.

Utilizing App-Hider Applications

App-hider applications are a great way to keep certain apps away from prying eyes. These apps can change the names and icons of the apps on your screen or hide them completely. Some even disguise themselves as another type of app, like a calculator or calendar, making them less noticeable.

Top App-Hider Apps Available

There are several popular app-hider applications available for Android devices. Here are a few of the most well-known ones:

• App Hider: This app not only hides your apps but also disguises itself as a calculator. It’s a free, ad-supported option that is quite popular.
• Hyde: Known for its rich features, Hyde allows you to hide apps, photos, and videos. It also has a hidden app launcher feature.
• Nova Launcher: While primarily a launcher, the paid version of Nova Launcher allows you to hide apps from your app drawer.

How to Use App Hider

Using an app-hider application is usually straightforward. Here’s a general guide on how to use these apps:

1. Download and install the app-hider application from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
3. Select the apps you want to hide and confirm your choices.
4. Some apps may allow you to disguise the app-hider itself, making it even more secure.

Security Features of App-Hider Apps

App-hider applications come with various security features to ensure your hidden apps stay hidden. Some of these features include:

• Disguised Icons: The app-hider can appear as a calculator or another inconspicuous app.
• Password Protection: Many app-hiders require a password or PIN to access the hidden apps.
• Data Encryption: Some apps offer encryption to protect your data during transit.

Using app-hider applications can significantly enhance your privacy by keeping sensitive apps out of sight. However, always practice responsible Android app safety when installing third-party software.

By utilizing these tools, you can make your Android device more secure and private.

Creating Secure Folders to Hide Apps

Setting Up a Secure Folder

Creating a secure folder on your Android device is a great way to keep your apps and files safe. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your device’s settings and go to Security & Privacy.
2. Look for the option called Secure Folder and tap on it.
3. Sign in with your account or create a new one if needed.
4. Follow the prompts to set up your secure folder, including choosing a lock type like PIN, pattern, or password.
5. Once set up, a shortcut to your secure folder will appear on your home screen.

Adding Apps to the Secure Folder

After setting up your secure folder, you can start adding apps to it. Here’s how:

1. Open your secure folder and tap the Add Apps button.
2. Select the apps you want to hide from the list or download new ones directly into the secure folder.
3. Tap Add to move the selected apps into the secure folder.

Managing Hidden Apps

Managing the apps in your secure folder is simple. You can add or remove apps anytime you want. To remove an app, just open the secure folder, long-press the app icon, and select Remove. This will take the app out of the secure folder but keep it on your device.

Using a secure folder is a smart way to keep your apps and files safe from prying eyes. It’s like having a personal vault on your phone.

By following these steps, you can easily hide apps and keep your personal information secure.

Using Guest Mode to Hide Apps

Guest Mode is a handy feature on Android devices that allows you to hide apps and other personal data when someone else is using your phone. This method is especially useful if you want to lend your phone to a friend or family member without giving them access to everything on your device.

Disabling Pre-Installed Apps

Many Android devices come with pre-installed apps, often referred to as bloatware. These apps can take up space and clutter your home screen. Fortunately, you can disable them to keep things tidy. Disabling an app will remove it from your home screen and prevent it from running in the background, though it will still take up some storage space.

Hiding Apps on Samsung Devices

Samsung devices offer several ways to hide apps, ensuring your sensitive information stays private. Here’s how you can do it using Samsung’s built-in features.

Using Samsung’s Built-In Features

Samsung phones come with multiple methods to hide apps. One of the most effective ways is by using Samsung’s Secure Folder. This feature allows you to keep apps and files in a secure, hidden space.

Steps to Hide Apps on Samsung

Follow these steps to hide apps on your Samsung device:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Navigate to Security and privacy and select Secure Folder.
3. Sign in with your Samsung account or create one if you don’t have it.
4. Once inside the Secure Folder, tap the + icon to add apps you want to hide.
5. Select the apps and they will be moved to the Secure Folder.

Restoring Hidden Apps on Samsung

If you need to access or unhide the apps, follow these steps:

1. Open the Secure Folder from your home screen.
2. Enter your security credentials to unlock it.
3. Tap on the app you want to unhide and move it out of the Secure Folder.

Using Samsung’s Secure Folder is a great way to keep your apps hidden and secure. It requires a few steps but ensures that your sensitive apps are protected.

By following these steps, you can easily manage and hide apps on your Samsung device, keeping your information safe and private.

Hiding Apps on Xiaomi Devices

Xiaomi phones come with a built-in feature that makes it easy to hide apps. This feature is part of the MIUI operating system and can be very handy if you want to keep certain apps out of sight. Here’s how you can do it:

Using Xiaomi’s Hidden Apps Feature

Xiaomi’s MIUI offers a straightforward way to hide apps without needing any third-party applications. This feature is integrated into the system settings, making it both secure and convenient.

Steps to Hide Apps on Xiaomi

Follow these simple steps to hide apps on your Xiaomi device:

1. Open the Settings app on your Xiaomi phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on App lock.
3. Tap on the gear icon in the top right corner to access more settings.
4. Select Hidden apps from the menu.
5. Tap on Manage hidden apps.
6. Choose the apps you want to hide by toggling the switch next to each app.

Once you’ve completed these steps, the apps you selected will be hidden from your home screen and app drawer.

Managing Hidden Apps on Xiaomi

To access the apps you’ve hidden, you can use a simple gesture. Pinch outwards on your home screen using two fingers. This will bring up the hidden apps menu, where you can unlock the apps using your fingerprint or password.

Xiaomi could finally make it easier to disable system ads, but for now, hiding apps is a great way to keep your phone organized and clutter-free.

If you ever want to unhide an app, just go back to the Manage hidden apps section and toggle the switch off next to the app you want to unhide.

Hiding Apps on OnePlus Devices

OnePlus devices come with a handy feature called Hidden Space, which allows users to hide apps easily. This feature is part of the OxygenOS, OnePlus’ custom Android skin.

Using OnePlus’ Hidden Space

To use Hidden Space, follow these steps:

1. Open the app drawer on your OnePlus device.
2. Swipe right to access Hidden Space.
3. Tap the "+" icon in the top-right corner.
4. Select the apps you want to hide.
5. Confirm your selection.

Steps to Hide Apps on OnePlus

Here’s a more detailed guide to hiding apps on a OnePlus phone:

1. Launch the app drawer.
2. Swipe right to open Hidden Space.
3. Tap the "+" icon on the top-right side.
4. Choose the apps you wish to hide.
5. Confirm your selection.

Restoring Hidden Apps on OnePlus

If you need to unhide apps, the process is just as simple:

1. Open the app drawer and swipe right to access Hidden Space.
2. Tap the "+" icon again.
3. Deselect the apps you want to unhide.
4. Confirm your selection.

Pro Tip: Hidden Space is a great way to keep your home screen organized and free from clutter. It’s also useful for keeping certain apps away from prying eyes.

With these steps, you can easily manage which apps are visible on your OnePlus device, ensuring your privacy and keeping your home screen tidy.

Hiding Apps on LG Devices

Using LG’s Home Screen Settings

LG smartphones offer a straightforward way to hide apps directly from the home screen settings. To get started, follow these steps:

1. Long-press on the home screen to open the Home Screen Settings.
2. Tap on the option labeled Hide apps.
3. Select the apps you want to conceal from the list.
4. Confirm your selection by tapping the Done button.

Steps to Hide Apps on LG

To hide apps on an LG device, you can also navigate through the settings menu. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings app on your LG phone.
2. Go to the Display tab and select Home screen.
3. Find and tap on the Hide apps option.
4. Choose the apps you wish to hide and confirm by pressing Done.

Managing Hidden Apps on LG

Once you’ve hidden apps, you might want to manage them later. To do this:

1. Go back to the Home Screen Settings by long-pressing the home screen.
2. Tap on Hide apps to see the list of hidden apps.
3. Uncheck any apps you want to make visible again and confirm by tapping Done.

LG phones make it easy to keep certain apps out of sight, ensuring your home screen stays organized and clutter-free.

Hiding Apps on Google Pixel Devices

Google Pixel devices offer a straightforward way to hide apps, ensuring your private apps stay out of sight. Here’s how you can do it:

Using Pixel’s App Info

To hide apps on a Google Pixel device, you can use the built-in app info settings. This method is simple and doesn’t require any third-party apps.

1. Navigate to the app drawer on your Pixel device.
2. Press and hold the app you want to hide.
3. From the pop-up menu, tap on the info icon.
4. Hit the Disable application option.

Steps to Hide Apps on Pixel

Follow these steps to hide apps on your Google Pixel device:

1. Open the app drawer by swiping up from the home screen.
2. Locate the app you wish to hide and press and hold its icon.
3. In the pop-up menu, select the info icon (it looks like an ‘i’ in a circle).
4. Tap on the Disable option to hide the app from your app drawer.

Restoring Hidden Apps on Pixel

If you need to access a hidden app again, you can easily restore it:

1. Go to the Settings menu on your Pixel device.
2. Scroll down and select Apps & notifications.
3. Tap on See all apps to view the full list of apps.
4. Find the disabled app and tap on it.
5. Select the Enable option to make the app visible again.

Using the app info settings on a Google Pixel device is a quick and effective way to hide apps without needing any extra software. This method ensures that your private apps remain hidden from plain view.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I hide apps on my Android phone?

You can hide apps on your Android phone using built-in settings, third-party launchers, app-hider applications, secure folders, guest mode, or by disabling pre-installed apps.

Do I need to install a third-party app to hide apps?

No, many Android phones have built-in settings that allow you to hide apps without needing third-party apps. However, third-party launchers and app-hider apps offer more features.

Can I hide apps on a Samsung device?

Yes, Samsung devices have built-in features that let you hide apps. You can do this through the Home screen settings.

Is it possible to hide apps on a Google Pixel phone?

Yes, you can hide apps on a Google Pixel phone by using the app info settings and disabling the apps you want to hide.

What are some popular third-party launchers for hiding apps?

Some popular third-party launchers for hiding apps include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, and Evie Launcher.

How do I use a secure folder to hide apps?

You can set up a secure folder through your phone’s settings. Once set up, you can add apps to the secure folder to keep them hidden from the main app drawer.

Can I hide pre-installed apps?

Yes, you can hide pre-installed apps by accessing the app info settings and disabling the apps you don’t want to see.

What is the difference between hiding and disabling apps?

Hiding apps removes them from the home screen and app drawer without disabling their functionality. Disabling apps stops them from running and removes them from view.