There are several reasons you may want to hide an app on your iPhone or iPad. Maybe you have apps that you don’t use frequently and want to declutter your home screen, or perhaps you have apps you’d prefer to keep private from others who might use your device. Hiding apps can help you organize your device better, maintain your privacy, and make it easier to find the apps you use most. To be clear, this does require that you’re using an iPhone running at least iOS 18 or an iPad running at least iPadOS 18.
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Steps to Hide an App on iPhone or iPad
- Navigate to the app you want to hide on your iPhone or iPad home screen.
- Hold your finger against that app to open a menu. Tap “Require Face ID” or “Require Touch ID” in this menu. A window pops up asking if you want to require either Face ID or Touch ID to open this app.
- Tap “Hide and Require ID” in this window. A screen opens asking if you want to hide this app. You’ll be notified that if you hide this app it will no longer be visible on your iPhone or iPad except in a few places, and that either Face ID or Touch ID will be required to find and open this app. Additionally, you’ll be made aware that as long as this app is hidden you won’t receive notifications, calls or alerts associated with this app.
- Tap “Hide App.” That app will no longer be visible on your iPhone or iPad home screen.
You can see and access your hidden apps by swiping from right to left across your iPhone or iPad home screen until you arrive at the App Library screen. Scroll to the bottom of this screen where you’ll see a Hidden folder. Tap the “Hidden” folder and then supply the required Face ID or Touch ID. After your authentication is complete, any hidden apps will be displayed in the folder and you’ll be able to open and access them.
You can unhide hidden apps at any time by holding your finger against a hidden app, and then tapping “Don’t Require ID” in the menu that opens. The app will be visible as normal on your device’s home screen.
5 Reasons to Hide an App on iPhone or iPad
1. Protecting Personal Privacy
Hiding an app on your iPhone or iPad is a great way to protect your personal privacy. When you share your device with others, you might not want them to see certain apps that contain sensitive information. By hiding these apps, you ensure that your personal data stays confidential. This is especially useful for apps related to finance, health, or personal journals. Keeping these apps out of sight adds an extra layer of security to your device. You can lend your phone to friends or family without worrying about them stumbling upon private information. Maintaining control over who sees what on your device gives you peace of mind. It’s a simple step that significantly enhances your overall privacy.
2. Preventing Unauthorized Access
Another reason to hide apps is to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. If you have kids who use your device, you might want to keep certain apps away from their curious fingers. Hiding apps like social media, online shopping, or messaging platforms helps avoid accidental purchases or inappropriate usage. This method complements parental controls by adding an extra barrier. You can manage what your children can access without completely restricting their use of the device. This approach allows you to share your iPhone or iPad while keeping specific apps off-limits. It’s an effective way to balance accessibility and security for all users.
3. Reducing Clutter on the Home Screen
Hiding apps can significantly reduce clutter on your home screen, making your device more organized. If you have numerous apps installed, your home screen might feel overwhelming. By hiding less frequently used apps, you create a cleaner and more streamlined interface. This makes it easier to find the apps you use regularly without scrolling through multiple pages. An organized home screen enhances your user experience and increases productivity. It also gives your device a minimalist aesthetic that many users find appealing. Simplifying your app layout can make daily navigation more efficient and enjoyable.
4. Minimizing Distractions
Hiding apps that are sources of distraction can help you stay focused. Social media, games, or entertainment apps can be tempting when you’re trying to concentrate. By hiding these apps, you reduce the impulse to check them frequently. This can improve your productivity whether you’re working, studying, or spending time with loved ones. Out of sight often means out of mind, making it easier to resist unnecessary distractions. Taking control of your digital environment supports better time management. It’s a practical strategy for those looking to minimize screen time and stay on task.
5. Maintaining Professional Appearance
For professionals, hiding certain apps ensures your device maintains a professional appearance during meetings or presentations. You might not want colleagues or clients to see personal apps like dating platforms or casual games. By keeping these apps hidden, your device appears more business-focused. This attention to detail reflects well on your professionalism and discretion. It also prevents any awkward situations that might arise from personal apps being visible. Presenting a polished image is important in many professional settings. Hiding apps helps you manage perceptions and maintain a level of formality when it matters most.
