How to hide apps on an iPhone

You may have apps on your iPhone that you don’t want anyone to see, or you simply want to keep your home screen clean. No matter what the reason, your phone is your personal space, and you deserve to personalise it accordingly. While there wasn’t always a straightforward way to hide them on your iPhone, the landmark iOS 18 update finally allows users to incorporate an added layer of security for their apps.

Wondering how to hide apps on your iPhone? Check out the steps to go about it.

A step-by-step guide to hiding your apps on an iPhone

Whether you’re trying to hide an embarrassing app or are hoping to maintain some privacy, hiding your apps can make sure your personal data remains safe at all times. However, before you proceed, make sure your iPhone is compatible and updated to the latest iOS version. Once you do, these are a few steps you can follow.

Step 1: Navigate to the app you want to hide on your iPhone

Step 2: Long press on it until you find a list of options

Step 3: Within this, you should find a Hide & Require Face ID option

Step 4: Once you tap on this, your iPhone should prompt you to set up Face ID for your selected app

Step 5: After you set your Face ID up, the app will automatically disappear from your home screen

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To find your hidden apps, all you have to do is scroll to the bottom of your App Library. You will find a Hidden folder, which will appear only if you use your Face ID to unlock it. This means nobody, except you, can access the folder.

Hiding and un-hiding apps on your iPhone is really that easy. With these options, you can protect your privacy. However, you should note that all apps cannot be hidden in your iPhone. You cannot hide apps like Mail, Calendar, Calculator, Voice Memos and iTunes Store apps.