How to Hide Apps on Android Phone

In today's digital age, smartphones have become an extension of our lives. We store a plethora of personal information and apps on our phones, which might prompt the need for privacy. Whether it's to keep sensitive apps away from prying eyes or maintain a clutter-free app drawer, hiding apps on your Android phone can be a useful trick. This article will guide you through various methods to achieve just that.

Why Would You Want to Hide Apps on Your Android Phone?

Before delving into the methods, let's explore the reasons behind hiding apps. Privacy is a significant concern in a world where our smartphones hold so much personal information. By hiding certain apps, you can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive content. Moreover, hiding apps can also help declutter your app drawer, making it easier to find the apps you frequently use.

Built-In Methods for Hiding Apps on Android

Method 1: Using the App Drawer

Most Android phones offer a built-in feature to hide apps from the app drawer. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open your app drawer.
2. Tap the three-dot menu icon.
3. Select "Home screen settings" or a similar option.
4. Look for the "Hide apps" or "Hidden apps" section.
5. Choose the apps you want to hide.

Method 2: Creating Folders

Another simple way to hide apps is by creating folders on your home screen. Here's how:

1. Long-press an app icon.
2. Drag and drop it onto another app to create a folder.
3. Place the apps you want to hide within this folder.

Using Third-Party Launchers

Method 3: Nova Launcher

Nova Launcher is a popular third-party launcher that offers extensive customization options, including hiding apps. Here's how to do it:

1. Download and install Nova Launcher from the Play Store.
2. Long-press on your home screen, then select "Widgets."
3. Add the "Activities" widget from Nova Launcher.
4. Scroll down and find the app you want to hide, then select it.

Method 4: Apex Launcher

Apex Launcher is another excellent third-party launcher with app-hiding capabilities:

1. Install Apex Launcher from the Play Store.
2. Long-press on your home screen, choose "Add to Home screen," then select "Activities."
3. Scroll through the list and locate the app you want to hide.

Using Privacy Apps

Method 5: Calculator Vault

Privacy apps like Calculator Vault offer a unique approach to hiding apps. They disguise apps as something else entirely:

1. Install Calculator Vault from the Play Store.
2. Follow the setup process, which usually involves creating a password.
3. Add the apps you want to hide to the vault.

Method 6: AppLock

AppLock not only locks apps but can also hide them from your app drawer:

1. Get AppLock from the Play Store and set it up.
2. Go to the "Advanced Protection" section.
3. Choose the apps you want to hide.

Disguising Apps

Method 7: Changing App Icons

You can change app icons to something inconspicuous, making them harder to find:

1. Find a custom icon pack on the Play Store.
2. Install and apply the icon pack.
3. Long-press on the app you want to hide, then select "Edit."

Method 8: Renaming Apps

Renaming apps can also help conceal their true identity:

1. Long-press the app icon.
2. Select "Edit" or "Rename."
3. Give the app a generic name.

Secure Folder Method

Some Android devices come with a built-in Secure Folder feature:

1. Go to your phone's settings.
2. Look for "Biometrics and security" or a similar option.
3. Set up and open the Secure Folder.
4. Move the apps you want to hide into this folder.

Conclusion

Hiding apps on your Android phone can be essential for maintaining your privacy and keeping your app drawer organized. Whether you use built-in methods, third-party launchers, privacy apps, or disguising techniques, you have multiple options to choose from. Experiment with these methods to find the one that suits your preferences and needs.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to use third-party launchers for hiding apps?
   Yes, reputable third-party launchers like Nova Launcher and Apex Launcher are safe to use and offer enhanced customization features.
2. Can I hide system apps as well?
   The ability to hide system apps depends on the method you choose. Some methods may allow you to hide system apps, while others might not.
3. What happens if I forget the password for a privacy app like Calculator Vault?
   If you forget the password, you might need to uninstall the app and reinstall it. Keep in mind that this could lead to the loss of any hidden content.
4. Will using privacy apps affect the performance of my phone?
   Privacy apps usually have a negligible impact on performance, as they are designed to run efficiently in the background.
5. Can I hide apps without using any additional tools or methods?
   Yes, most Android phones offer built-in methods to hide apps, as mentioned in this article. 

Thanks for reading: How to Hide Apps on Android Phone, Sorry, my English is bad:)