Ever feel like some apps on your Samsung phone deserve a little privacy? Whether you want to keep sensitive information safe, declutter your app drawer, or ensure others don’t stumble upon certain apps, hiding them can be an effective solution.
Don’t know how to hide apps in Samsung? You are in the right place! Samsung phones, with their robust One UI interface, provide multiple ways to hide apps. From built-in tools to third-party options, you can choose any convenient method to hide apps. This read will explain the best methods to keep your apps out of sight.
Why Hide Apps?
There are several reasons why hiding apps can be beneficial:
Privacy Protection: Apps like banking, social media, or personal notes often hold sensitive information. Hiding them ensures added security.
Decluttering Your Screen: Keeping unnecessary apps hidden makes your app drawer cleaner and easier to navigate.
Parental Control: Parents can hide apps to prevent kids from accessing inappropriate or distracting content.
Focus and Productivity: Minimizing distractions by hiding gaming or social apps helps maintain focus.
Method 1: Using Samsung’s Built-in Hide Apps Feature
For those who don’t know how to hide apps in Samsung, there is a built-in feature that hides apps. If you wish not to install any third-party apps, you can utilize this method. Here is how you can do it:
Access Home Screen Settings:
Long-press any empty area on the home screen. Tap Settings or Home Screen Settings (depending on your model).
Navigate to Hide Apps:
Look for the Hide Apps option in the menu. This will open a list of all installed apps.
Select Apps to Hide:
Tap on the apps you want to hide. Confirm your selection by tapping Done or Apply.
Access Hidden Apps:
Hidden apps remain installed but are not visible in the app drawer. You can access them via Search or directly from the Play Store. This method is simple and effective, but there is no password protection.
Method 2: Utilizing Secure Folder
Samsung’s Secure Folder is a robust privacy feature that locks apps and data with a password, PIN, or biometric authentication.
Set Up Secure Folder:
Navigate to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder. Follow the prompts to set up a secure access method, such as a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
Add Apps to Secure Folder:
Open the Secure Folder and tap Add Apps. Select the apps you wish to hide and secure. These apps will now only be accessible through the Secure Folder, ensuring complete privacy. This feature is perfect for safeguarding sensitive apps like banking or personal photo galleries.
Accessing Secure Folder:
Only you can open the Secure Folder using your chosen authentication method. Secure Folder provides a higher level of security and is perfect for safeguarding personal or sensitive apps.
Method 3: Third-Party Launchers
Custom launchers like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher offer advanced customization options, including app hiding.
Install Nova Launcher:
Download Nova Launcher from the Google Play Store and set it as your default launcher.
Access Nova Settings:
Open the Nova Settings app. Go to App Drawer settings.
Hide Apps:
Scroll to the Hide Apps option. Select the apps you want to hide. Third-party launchers often provide more flexibility, but keep in mind they may not offer password protection for hidden apps.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Apps for Extra Security
If you need password protection for your hidden apps, third-party apps like AppLock or AirDroid Parental Control can be useful.
Download and Install AppLock:
Find AppLock on the Google Play Store and install it.
Set Up a Password:
Launch AppLock and set a password, PIN, or pattern.
Lock Apps:
Select the apps you want to lock and hide. Apps like AppLock combine app hiding with password protection, offering an extra layer of security.
Finding Hidden Apps on Samsung Phones
If you suspect that apps are hidden on your phone or a shared device, here are some effective ways to locate them:
Check the App Drawer:
Hidden apps might still show up in the app drawer search. Open the app drawer and use the search bar to type the app name. If the app is installed, it will appear even if hidden from the main view.
Inspect Secure Folder:
Samsung’s Secure Folder is designed to keep apps and files private. Check if the Secure Folder is enabled by navigating to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder. Keep in mind that accessing it requires a PIN, password, or biometric authentication.
Use Third-Party Tools:
Parental control apps like AirDroid can help identify hidden apps on the device. These tools scan for unusual activities, making them especially helpful for shared devices. With these steps, uncovering hidden apps becomes easier.
Things to Keep in Mind When Hiding Apps
Those who wish to know how to hide apps in Samsung, keep the following things in mind:
Hidden Apps Are Still Accessible:
While hiding apps removes them from view, it doesn’t disable their functionality. Hidden apps can still run in the background, send notifications, or be accessed through the Play Store. For complete privacy, consider uninstalling unused apps or using Secure Folder.
Update Settings After Software Updates:
After a One UI or Android update, app hiding settings may reset or behave differently. It’s a good practice to recheck and reapply your settings to ensure your apps remain hidden as intended.
Avoid Over-reliance on Hiding Features:
Hiding apps is a basic privacy measure but not foolproof. For sensitive apps like banking or personal data, use secure methods such as password protection, Secure Folder, or third-party apps like AppLock for enhanced security.
These tips help ensure your hidden apps remain discreet and secure, even with evolving software environments.
Summing up
Hiding apps on Samsung phones is a simple yet effective way to enhance privacy, organize your interface, and maintain focus. Whether you prefer using Samsung’s built-in features or exploring third-party launchers and security apps, there is a solution for everyone.
Next time you feel the need for extra privacy or simplicity, try one of these methods. You will appreciate the hassle-free experience they bring to your device.
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