How to Hide Apps on iPhone
Want to keep certain apps on your iPhone out of sight? Whether you’re aiming for a cleaner home screen or just want to keep some apps private, hiding them is simple. By using features like the App Library or Screen Time restrictions, you can effectively make apps less visible. Here’s how you can achieve this in just a few steps.
How to Hide Apps on iPhone
Hiding apps on your iPhone can help maintain privacy and declutter your home screen. Follow these steps to make your apps disappear from plain sight.
Step 1: Use the App Library
Swipe to the App Library by continuing to swipe left past your last home screen.
The App Library organizes your apps intelligently, allowing you to remove them from the home screen without deleting them. It’s a handy way to keep apps available but out of sight.
Step 2: Remove Apps from the Home Screen
Long-press the app icon, then select "Remove App" and choose "Move to App Library."
This action relocates the app to the App Library while keeping it installed. It won’t appear on the home screen, giving a cleaner look.
Step 3: Hide Apps Using Screen Time
Go to Settings, tap "Screen Time," then "Content & Privacy Restrictions," and finally, "Allowed Apps."
Here, you can toggle off apps you want to hide. This method is great for hiding apps from others who might use your phone.
Step 4: Use Folders to Hide Apps
Organize apps within folders and move the app to a second or third page in the folder.
Although not completely hidden, this method makes apps less noticeable at a glance, especially if the folder is filled with other apps.
Step 5: Turn Off App Notifications
Go to Settings, tap "Notifications," find the app, and toggle off "Allow Notifications."
By turning off notifications, hidden apps won’t pop up with alerts, keeping them off the radar.
After hiding your apps, they’ll still be on your device, just less visible. You can access them via the App Library or hidden folders and adjust settings anytime to make them visible again.
Tips for Hiding Apps on iPhone
- Use Search for Quick Access: Even if apps are hidden, you can find them using the iPhone’s search feature—just swipe down from the home screen.
- Periodically Check App Library: Make sure you remember where you’ve hidden your apps to avoid confusion later.
- Be Mindful of Updates: Hidden apps still receive updates, so check the App Store to keep them current.
- Utilize Restrictions Wisely: Use Screen Time to manage who can see certain apps, especially if others use your device often.
- Keep It Organized: Regularly review your hidden apps to ensure they’re stored in a way that makes sense to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely delete an app without losing data?
No, deleting an app will remove its data. Hiding it preserves the data while keeping the app out of sight.
Will hiding apps save battery life?
Not directly, but reducing notifications and background activity for hidden apps might help.
Can anyone else see my hidden apps?
If you’ve hidden apps using Screen Time restrictions, others cannot see them without changing the settings.
Do hidden apps still use storage?
Yes, hidden apps remain installed and use storage like any other app.
What if I forget where I hid an app?
Use the search feature on your iPhone to quickly locate any hidden app.
Summary
- Swipe to App Library.
- Move app to App Library.
- Use Screen Time restrictions.
- Organize in folders.
- Turn off notifications.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPhone is a clever way to maintain a tidy home screen and keep certain apps away from prying eyes. Whether you’re using the App Library, Screen Time restrictions, or just strategic folder placement, these methods offer flexibility and control. Remember, hiding apps doesn’t delete them; they’re just tucked away for when you need them.
If you’re interested in exploring more iPhone tips and tricks, consider diving deeper into other customization options your device offers. Keeping your phone organized not only enhances privacy but also improves your overall user experience. Now that you’re equipped with the know-how, why not start hiding those apps today?
Matthew Roberts created this site to help his friends and family with questions that they might have about how to change the settings on their iPhones. It now serves as an archive of iPhone how-to guides to help anyone that stumbles upon this website.