how to hide application on android

3 min read 05-09-2024

Hiding applications on your Android device can be a useful way to maintain privacy or declutter your app drawer. Whether you want to keep certain apps away from prying eyes or simply prefer a cleaner look, this guide will walk you through several methods to hide apps on Android.

Why You Might Want to Hide Apps

Before we dive into the methods, let’s discuss a few reasons why you might want to hide apps on your Android device:

Privacy: Keep sensitive apps (like banking or messaging apps) away from curious users.
Clutter Management: Create a more organized home screen by hiding apps that you don’t use regularly.
Parental Controls: Prevent children from accessing inappropriate applications.

Methods to Hide Applications on Android

1. Using Built-in Features

Many Android devices come with built-in options to hide applications. Here's how to do it:

Samsung Devices

Go to the Home Screen: Swipe up to access your app drawer.
Tap on the Menu Icon: Usually located in the upper right corner (three dots).
Select 'Home Screen Settings'.
Tap on 'Hide Apps': You can now choose which apps to hide.
Select Apps: Mark the apps you wish to hide and confirm.

Google Pixel and Other Stock Android Devices

Open the App Drawer.
Tap on the Search Bar: At the top of the screen.
Select 'App Info': Choose the app you want to hide.
Choose 'Disable': This will remove it from your app list, but keep in mind that it won’t be completely gone; you can enable it again later.

2. Using Third-Party Launchers

If your device doesn’t have built-in hiding features, consider downloading a third-party launcher. These custom launchers often come with enhanced privacy options.

Popular Launchers to Consider:

Nova Launcher: Offers robust customization, including app hiding.
Microsoft Launcher: Provides an organized layout and privacy features.
Apex Launcher: Lets you hide apps with simple settings.

Steps to Hide Apps with Nova Launcher:

Download and Install Nova Launcher from the Google Play Store.
Set it as Your Default Launcher.
Long-Press on the Home Screen: Select 'Settings'.
Go to 'App & Widget Drawers'.
Select 'Hide Apps': Choose the apps you want to hide and confirm.

3. Using a Secure Folder

Some smartphones, like Samsung devices, offer a Secure Folder feature, which allows you to keep sensitive apps and files hidden and protected.

Setting Up Secure Folder:

Go to Settings: Scroll to find "Biometrics and security".
Select 'Secure Folder': Follow the prompts to set it up.
Add Apps: You can add apps to the Secure Folder, keeping them hidden from your regular app drawer.

4. Using App Hider Apps

If you prefer a specialized tool, you can also download apps designed specifically for hiding applications.

Recommended Hider Apps:

App Hider: Lets you hide apps and provides a separate space for them.
Hide App: Offers an easy way to hide apps with a PIN protection feature.

To Use App Hider:

Download and Install App Hider from the Google Play Store.
Open the App: Set a password or pin.
Select Apps to Hide: Follow the instructions to hide selected applications.

Conclusion

Hiding applications on your Android device is a straightforward process, offering both privacy and organizational benefits. Whether using built-in features, third-party launchers, secure folders, or specialized hider apps, you can keep your device looking clean and personal.

Helpful Tips:

Regularly Review Hidden Apps: To ensure you’re not hiding anything important.
Use Passwords for Sensitive Apps: Consider additional security measures for sensitive content.

By following these methods, you can easily customize your Android experience and keep your applications as private as you need them to be. Happy hiding!

For more tips on Android customization, check out our articles on Optimizing Your Android Device and Essential Android Apps for Privacy.