Hiding apps on your iPhone can be a handy way to keep your home screen clean or safeguard your privacy. You can do this by using app folders, the App Library, or Screen Time restrictions. By following a few simple steps, you can successfully make your apps less visible without deleting them entirely.
How to Hide Apps on iPhone
In this section, we’ll go through some easy methods to hide your apps on an iPhone. Each step is designed to give you control over which apps appear on your home screen.
Step 1: Use Folders to Hide Apps
Create a folder by dragging one app over another.
Once you have a folder, you can drag other apps into it. To make an app less noticeable, drag it to the second page of the folder by holding the app until it wiggles, then moving it to the right.
Step 2: Utilize the App Library
Swipe left until you reach the App Library, where all your apps are stored.
From here, you can remove apps from your home screen while keeping them in the App Library. Simply press and hold the app, select "Remove from Home Screen," and it will still be accessible in the App Library.
Step 3: Set Up Screen Time Restrictions
Go to Settings, then tap Screen Time.
Select "Content & Privacy Restrictions," enable it, and then tap "Allowed Apps." From here, you can disable specific apps from appearing on your home screen.
Step 4: Use Siri Suggestions
Open Settings, then tap Siri & Search.
Toggle off "Show App" under the app you want to hide. This removes the app from search suggestions and Siri recommendations.
Step 5: Hide App Purchases
Navigate to App Store, tap on your profile icon, then "Purchased."
Find the app you want to hide, swipe left, and choose "Hide." This doesn’t remove the app but hides its history from others.
After completing these steps, your chosen apps will be hidden from your home screen. They will still be installed and can be accessed through the App Library or by using search features.
Tips for Hiding Apps on iPhone
- Use folders to group similar apps together, making them less noticeable.
- Regularly check your App Library to ensure all apps are organized.
- Use a passcode with Screen Time restrictions to add an extra layer of privacy.
- Periodically review which apps are hidden to maintain control over your home screen.
- Consider hiding apps temporarily when sharing your phone with others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hidden apps still send notifications?
Yes, hidden apps can still send notifications unless you disable them in the app settings.
Will hiding apps save storage space?
No, hiding apps does not affect your storage as the apps remain installed.
Can I hide system apps?
Yes, some system apps can be hidden using Screen Time restrictions.
How do I find a hidden app?
Use the App Library or the search feature to locate hidden apps.
Is there a limit to how many apps I can hide?
No, you can hide as many apps as you like using the available methods.
Summary
- Create folders to hide apps.
- Remove apps from the home screen using the App Library.
- Set up Screen Time restrictions.
- Disable app visibility in Siri & Search settings.
- Hide app purchases in the App Store.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPhone is a practical approach to maintaining a tidy home screen and ensuring your privacy. Whether you’re trying to keep sensitive apps out of sight or just want a minimalist look, the methods described here allow you to tailor your iPhone’s appearance to your liking. While the apps remain installed, the steps to hide them are simple and reversible, giving you full control over your device.
Remember, technology is a tool meant to serve you, and knowing how to hide apps on an iPhone is just one way to make sure it does. As you explore these options, you might find new ways to organize your digital life more efficiently. For further learning, consider delving into more advanced iPhone settings or exploring third-party apps that offer additional customization. Happy organizing!