How to Hide Apps on iPhone
Need to keep some iPhone apps out of sight? It’s easier than you think. You can hide apps using built-in features like App Library, folders, or restrictions. This quick guide will show you exactly how to do it in a few simple steps. By the end, you’ll know how to tuck those apps away, keeping them private and organized without any hassle.
How to Hide Apps on iPhone
Hiding apps on your iPhone helps keep your home screen neat and protects your privacy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.
Step 1: Use the App Library
Go to your home screen, swipe left until you reach the App Library.
The App Library organizes all your apps into categories. Once there, you can remove apps from the home screen by long-pressing the app icon and selecting "Remove from Home Screen." This doesn’t delete the app; it just hides it from view.
Step 2: Create a Folder
Hold down an app icon until it jiggles, then drag it onto another app to create a folder.
By grouping apps into a folder and placing it on a less prominent page, you can make them less noticeable. You can also name the folder something generic to avoid drawing attention.
Step 3: Use Screen Time Restrictions
Open Settings, tap on Screen Time, then select Content & Privacy Restrictions.
By enabling restrictions, you can hide apps based on age ratings. For instance, you can restrict apps rated 12+ to hide specific ones. To do this, navigate to “Allowed Apps” and turn off the ones you wish to hide.
Step 4: Hide App Purchases
Go to the App Store, tap your profile icon, then select Purchased.
If you’ve downloaded shared family apps, hiding purchases can keep them out of view. Swipe left on the app you want to hide and tap "Hide."
Step 5: Use Siri & Search Settings
Go to Settings, tap Siri & Search, and toggle off “Show App.”
Disabling this option prevents the app from appearing in search results and Siri suggestions, adding an extra layer of invisibility.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your chosen apps will be hidden from plain sight. They won’t clutter your home screen, but you’ll still be able to access them when needed.
Tips for Hiding Apps on iPhone
- Stay Organized: Regularly update your folders and hidden apps to keep things tidy.
- Use Generic Labels: Name folders with non-specific titles to avoid attention.
- Regularly Review Restrictions: Update restrictions if new apps need hiding.
- Combine Methods: Use multiple methods together for better results.
- Backup Your Settings: Save your arrangements in case you need to reset your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely delete an app without hiding it?
Yes, you can delete apps entirely by long-pressing the app icon and selecting "Delete App."
Will hidden apps still receive updates?
Yes, hidden apps will update automatically as long as your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or a mobile network.
Can hidden apps still send notifications?
Yes, unless you manually disable notifications in the app’s settings.
How do I find a hidden app?
You can still access hidden apps through the App Library or by using the search feature.
Can I hide system apps?
Some built-in apps can be hidden using Screen Time restrictions, but not all.
Summary
- Use the App Library for organization.
- Create folders to group apps.
- Set Screen Time restrictions.
- Hide purchases in the App Store.
- Adjust Siri & Search settings.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPhone is like tucking away clutter in a drawer—out of sight, out of mind, yet still within reach when needed. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist home screen or just want to keep certain apps private, these steps offer simple solutions. Remember, it’s about making your phone work for you, not the other way around.
Give these tips a try and experiment to find the method that suits you best. As you become familiar with these strategies, managing your apps will become second nature. If you’re curious about other ways to make your iPhone more efficient, explore additional settings and features. Now that you’re an expert on hiding apps on your iPhone, why not share this newfound knowledge with friends? They might appreciate a tidier digital space, too!
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.