You unlock your Samsung phone, and there it is. An app you’d rather keep private, sitting right on your home screen or buried in your app drawer, is easy for anyone to find. If you’ve ever shared your device or are worried someone might tap the wrong icon, hiding certain apps can give you peace of mind and control over your privacy.
Why You Might Want To Hide Apps
Some apps are pre-installed on Samsung devices and can’t be removed; they are only disabled. Instead of letting them clutter your app screen, you can hide them. In other cases, you may want to keep sensitive apps private, especially if you share your phone.
Method One: Use The Hide Function
Most Samsung Galaxy phones and Android devices include a built-in way to hide apps without using a third-party app hider or Android Launcher. This method keeps selected apps off your home screen and app drawer while keeping the data intact. It’s a good way to hide unused apps, pre-installed tools you cannot delete, or sensitive apps you don’t want to be visible to others who might use your phone.
To hide apps on a Samsung device:
- Swipe up to open the app drawer.
- Tap the pop-up menu (three-dot icon) in the top right corner.
- Select Home screen settings.
- Tap Hide apps on the Home and Apps screens.
- Tap to select as many apps as you want to hide.
- Click Done to confirm.
Your selected apps are now hidden in the apps section. To unhide them, repeat the same steps and deselect the apps.
Method Two: Create A Secure Folder
Another way is the Secure Folder feature on most Android devices. This creates a locked space to store sensitive info, apps, and files. Once you set up the PIN and password, go to Settings and tap Biometrics and Security. From there, follow the prompts to add the apps to your private folder.
Method Three: Use Third-Party Apps
You can also check out a few third-party apps from the Google Play Store. They’re designed to hide content, block guest accounts, and create a hidden space for sensitive apps. Here are a few to consider:
- App Hider: Disguises itself as a calculator but hides apps behind a password-protected interface.
- Nova Launcher: A customizable Android launcher that hides apps from your drawer, while you can reorganize your layout.
- Calculator Vault: Disguises specific apps, files, and photos while offering cloud backup and strong app lock features.
Method Four: Use Work Profiles
A Work Profile creates a separate space on your Android device, hiding work apps from personal use. It helps turn off apps temporarily and block access from multiple users. Tap the three vertical dots to manage or pause access when needed.
Need Help Getting Rid Of Unwanted Apps? Call Cell Mechanics
Need help managing clutter or keeping sensitive apps out of sight? If you’ve tried to find hidden apps or navigate through complex settings with no luck, Cell Mechanics can help. For expert support with Samsung repair in Winnipeg, contact Cell Mechanics and let certified technicians restore your phone’s performance.