How to hide apps on Android (Samsung, Pixel and others)
Hiding an icon keeps an app off the home screen. For real privacy, a locked Secure Folder or Private space is better.
The fix
Samsung: hide from the home screen
- 1
Touch and hold an empty spot on the home screen.
- 2
Tap Settings, then Hide apps on Home and Apps screens.
- 3
Select the apps and tap Done.
The fix
Samsung: Secure Folder
- 1
Open Settings › Security and privacy › More security settings › Secure Folder.
- 2
Set a lock, then tap Add apps inside the folder.
- 3
Hide the Secure Folder icon itself from its settings if you want.
The fix
Pixel and others: Private space
- 1
Open Settings › Security & privacy › Private space.
- 2
Follow the setup and choose a lock.
- 3
Install or move apps into it. Lock it to hide them.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone still find a hidden app?
With simple hiding, yes: it still shows in Settings › Apps and sometimes in search. Apps in Secure Folder or Private space need your PIN or fingerprint.
Do hidden apps still send notifications?
Hidden home screen apps do. Private space pauses its apps and notifications while it is locked.
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