How to Hide Apps on Android

Sometimes Android users may want to hide certain apps on their devices. This could be due to privacy concerns, the need to protect sensitive data, or simply to declutter the home screen. In this guide, we'll go through several effective ways to hide apps on Android using both built-in features and third-party apps.

1. Using Built-In Android Settings

Some Android devices have built-in options that allow users to hide apps without installing additional software. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open the Settings app on your device.
  2. Go to the Apps or App Manager section.
  3. Select the app you want to hide and tap on it.
  4. Click on Disable. This will remove the app from your home screen and app drawer, but it will remain installed on the device.

This method works well for system apps that cannot be uninstalled but can be disabled.

2. Using a Launcher with App Hiding Features

Many Android launchers, such as Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher, come with the option to hide apps easily:

  1. Download and install a launcher from the Google Play Store.
  2. Open the launcher’s settings.
  3. Look for the Hide Apps option or similar settings.
  4. Add the apps you want to hide to the list.

With this method, hidden apps won’t appear on the home screen or in the app drawer, but you can still access them using the search function.

3. Using Dedicated App-Hiding Tools

If the built-in options or launchers do not meet your needs, you can try dedicated apps like App Hider or Calculator Vault:

  1. Download one of these apps from the Google Play Store.
  2. Follow the setup instructions and add the apps you wish to hide.
  3. Some of these tools can even disguise themselves as other apps, such as a calculator, making them harder to detect.

This method is great for users who want to keep their private data safe and hidden from prying eyes.

4. Creating a Separate User Profile

Many Android devices allow you to create a separate user profile, where you can install only the apps you want to keep private:

  1. Open Settings and go to Users & Accounts.
  2. Add a new user and set up the profile, installing only the desired apps.
  3. Switch between profiles to access the hidden apps.

This method helps keep your private data isolated from the main profile on the device.

5. Using Folders to Hide App Icons

If you prefer a simpler method without using additional apps, create a folder on your home screen and move all the apps you want to hide into it. Name the folder something inconspicuous, like "Tools" or "System Files." This won’t provide full privacy, but it helps keep the apps out of sight.