How to Hide Apps on Android

Whether you're trying to maintain privacy, reduce screen clutter, or keep certain apps out of reach from prying eyes, hiding apps on Android can be immensely useful. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various methods to hide apps on Android devices, including built-in features, third-party applications, and launcher settings. Understanding these options will enable you to select the best approach depending on your device model and personal preferences.

Using Built-in Features

Many Android manufacturers provide built-in features that allow you to hide apps without needing to install additional software. The availability and functionality of these features can vary based on the brand and model of your device.

For example, Samsung phones offer a feature called “Secure Folder,” which permits users to move apps to a secure, password-protected space. Here's how you can use it:

Open the Settings app on your Samsung device.
Scroll down and select Biometrics and Security.
Tap on Secure Folder and follow the setup instructions.
Once the Secure Folder is set up, add the apps you wish to hide by tapping Add Apps inside the Secure Folder.

Users of OnePlus devices can use the "Hidden Space" feature, while Huawei offers a “Private Space” feature. These features create an area where apps are stored away from the primary home screen and app drawer.

Using Third-Party Applications

If your Android device does not offer built-in app hiding features, you can turn to third-party applications available on the Google Play Store. These apps are specifically designed to help hide applications securely.

Some popular choices include:

App Hider: This app allows you to hide any app you wish by cloning and uninstalling the original app. It also supports hiding photos and videos.
Nova Launcher: Through its Prime version, Nova Launcher enables users to hide app icons from their home screens and app drawers without uninstalling them. Simply:
- Install Nova Launcher from the Google Play Store.
- Open the Nova Settings from the home screen.
- Select App & widget drawers, then choose Hide Apps.
- Pick the apps you want to hide.
Apex Launcher: Similar to Nova Launcher, it offers an option in its app settings to hide apps. Navigate to Settings > Drawer Settings > Hidden Apps and choose which apps to conceal.

Using Native Launcher Features

Some Android devices support hiding apps directly through their default launchers. This method doesn’t require any additional downloads, making it one of the simplest approaches.

Xiaomi MIUI - MIUI provides a native feature to hide apps:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Go to App Lock and set it up if you haven't done so already.
- Select Hidden Apps and toggle on the apps you want to hide from the main menu.
OnePlus Launcher - It includes a "Hidden Space" feature in its app drawer:
- Open the app drawer by swiping up from the home screen.
- Swipe right to enter the Hidden Space.
- Tap the + icon to add apps to Hidden Space.

Guide Steps

Identify whether your Android device has a built-in app hiding feature.
If available, use the feature by navigating to settings and following device-specific instructions.
If there’s no built-in functionality, download a third-party app like App Hider or Nova Launcher from the Google Play Store.
Use the launcher settings or app-specific settings to hide your desired applications.
Test if the apps are hidden from the home screen and app drawer by browsing through your device.

FAQ

Can hidden apps still receive notifications?

Yes, hiding an app generally doesn't affect its functionality, including push notifications. Notifications will continue to appear unless you specifically disable them from the app's settings or system preferences.

Will hiding an app free up storage space?

No, hiding an app does not uninstall it, so it continues to consume storage space. It only conceals the app from the usual viewing spots like the app drawer or home screen.

Is hiding apps safe for secured applications like banking apps?

Hiding apps is safe under normal circumstances, especially if using built-in features. However, ensure that you are not using an untrusted third-party app that might compromise data security when hiding apps.