How to Hide Apps on Your Android Mobile Phone?

Fortunately, Android gives users multiple ways to achieve app concealment. You can depend on launcher apps, use built-in features like Secure Folder, switch to Guest Accounts, or even disable apps to make them disappear from your home screen. These options help you create invisible apps without deleting them, allowing full control over your digital privacy.

This guide will cover all effective methods, step-by-step instructions, and FAQs, while also highlighting three powerful smartphones, Nothing Phone (3a) 5G, ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro, and Google Pixel 10, that provide advanced tools for private apps and enhanced security.

Is it Possible to Hide Apps on Android Phones?

Yes, you can hide apps on Android. Unlike iPhones, where hiding options are limited, Android’s open ecosystem gives users multiple ways to make apps disappear. Some methods use third-party launchers to create invisible apps, while others rely on brand-specific features like Samsung’s Secure Folder or OnePlus’s Hidden Space. 

Importantly, hiding an app does not delete it from your device; it only removes it from visibility, keeping the app functional in the background. You can still receive notifications (unless disabled), update the app, and use it whenever you want. This makes app concealment especially useful for:

• Parents hiding apps from children.

   

• Professionals securing work-related apps.

   

• Users who want to organise or declutter their screens.

   

• Privacy-conscious people manage private apps like banking or health apps.

   

Effective Ways to Hide Apps on Android Phones

Here are the most practical ways to hide apps, ranging from simple built-in tools to advanced secure folders:

1. Using Various Android Launcher Apps

Android launchers are popular because they give your phone a fresh look while adding extra customisation, including the ability to hide apps. Steps to hide apps with launcher apps:

• Download a launcher such as Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, or Microsoft Launcher from the Google Play Store.

   

• Set it as your default launcher.

   

• Open the launcher’s settings panel.

   

• Look for alternatives like App Drawer > Hide Apps.

   

• Select apps you want hidden.

   

Advantages

• Easy to set up.

   

• Customisable, giving more control over your home screen.

   

• Can create multiple hidden app folders.

   

Limitations

• Works only if you continue using that launcher.

   

• Some advanced hiding options require a premium version.

   

2. Using Secure Folder Option to Hide Apps

Some smartphones, especially Samsung, Nothing, and a few others, offer a Secure Folder feature. It acts like a digital vault where you can store private apps, files, and photos behind an additional lock. Steps to use Secure Folder:

• Go to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder.

   

• Log in with your Samsung or Google account.

   

• Set up a PIN, password, or biometric lock.

   

• Add apps you want hidden into the Secure Folder.

   

Advantages

• Strong security with encryption.

   

• Apps remain functional but separate from your main interface.

   

• Ideal for banking apps, work tools, or private messengers.

   

Limitations

• Available only on select smartphones.

   

• Requires additional authentication each time you access it.

   

3. With a Guest Account or Private Mode Option

Android lets multiple user profiles, including Guest Accounts, which work like a clean slate without access to your apps. Steps to enable Guest Mode:

• Swipe down the quick settings panel.

   

• Tap the user profile icon.

   

• Select Guest Mode.

   

Advantages

• Keeps personal apps separate.

   

• Useful when lending your phone.

   

• Does not need third-party apps.

   

Limitations

• Switching accounts can be slow.

   

• Guest Mode may not be available on all phones.

   

4. With Disable Apps Option

If you want to hide pre-installed apps or bloatware, the Disable option works well. Steps to disable apps:

• Go to Settings > Apps & Notifications > All Apps.

   

• Tap the app you desire to disable.

   

• Select Disable.

   

   

Advantages

• Simple and effective.

   

• Reduces background activity.

   

Limitations

• Works mostly on system apps, not downloaded ones.

   

• Disabled apps must be re-enabled before use.

   

5. Built-in Settings to Hide Apps

Many Android brands have built-in app concealment tools. 

Samsung Phones

• Go to Settings > Display > Home Screen > Hide Apps.

   

• Select apps to hide.

   

OnePlus Phones

• Open App Drawer.

   

• Swipe right for Hidden Space.

   

• Add apps.

   

Xiaomi/Redmi Phones

• Go to Settings > Apps > App Lock.

   

• Use a password to hide apps.

   

Nothing Phones

• Go to Settings > Apps > Hide Apps.

   

• Select apps for concealment.

   

Advantages

• No need for third-party tools.

   

• Works seamlessly with phone software.

   

Limitations

• Features vary across brands.

   

• Some phones (like budget models) lack these settings.

   

Conclusion

Learning how to hide apps on Android gives you complete control over your privacy. From launchers to Secure Folder, Guest Mode, and built-in settings, Android offers multiple ways to create invisible apps. Whether you protect private apps from snooping eyes, keep work separate from personal use, or simply declutter your screen, the right method is just a few taps away. 

With advanced features in modern Android phones, hiding apps is now faster, safer, and more effective than ever.