Summarize this article with:
Your phone’s home screen reveals everything. Banking apps, dating platforms, medical trackers, all visible to anyone who glances at your device.
Learning how to hide apps on Android gives you control over your digital privacy without uninstalling applications you need.
This guide covers four proven methods for concealing apps across Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and other Android devices. You’ll discover launcher settings, secure folder configurations, and device-specific techniques that work on Android 10 through Android 14.
Each method takes 2-5 minutes and requires no technical expertise.
How to Hide Apps on Android
Hiding apps on Android removes applications from the home screen and app drawer while keeping them installed and functional on the device.
Users need this when organizing their interface, maintaining privacy from others who access their phone, or decluttering their screen from pre-installed bloatware.
This guide covers 4 primary methods requiring 2-5 minutes and Android 10 or later.
Prerequisites
Required specifications:
- Android device running Android 10, Android 11, Android 12, Android 13, or Android 14
- Basic familiarity with Settings menu navigation
- Device unlock access (PIN, password, or biometric authentication)
- Time required: 2-5 minutes depending on method
- Launcher compatibility verification for your specific launcher version
Step 1: How Do You Hide Apps Using the App Drawer Method?
Open app drawer, long-press the target app icon until options appear, select “Remove from Home” or “Hide,” confirm the action. App disappears from home screen and app drawer but remains installed and accessible through Settings > Apps.
Action
Settings > Home screen > Hide apps: Navigate to launcher settings by long-pressing empty space on home screen, tap “Home settings” or gear icon.
Select apps to hide: Tap “Hide apps” option, checkmark apps you want to conceal, tap “Apply” or “Done.”
Expected result: Selected apps vanish from app drawer and home screen while remaining functional in Settings > Apps > See all apps.
Purpose
This method provides quick app visibility control without affecting app functionality or requiring additional security layers.
Step 2: Where Do You Access Hidden Apps Settings on Samsung Devices?
Navigate Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder > Install (if first time), create Samsung account credentials or sign in, set lock type (PIN, password, pattern, fingerprint). Move apps into Secure Folder which encrypts and hides them behind authentication.
Action
Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder: Open Settings app, scroll to “Biometrics and Security” section, tap Secure Folder.
Authentication setup: Select lock method (Pattern, PIN, Password, or Fingerprint), confirm your choice, agree to terms.
Add apps to folder: Tap “Add apps” inside Secure Folder, select apps from list, tap “Add” to move them into encrypted space.
Purpose
Secure Folder creates password-protected, encrypted storage space for sensitive apps using Samsung Knox security platform on One UI devices.
Step 3: How Do You Hide Apps Using Stock Android Launcher Settings?
Access app drawer, tap three-dot menu icon or “Home settings,” select “Hide apps” from options list, choose apps to conceal by tapping checkboxes. Hidden apps remain installed but invisible in drawer, accessible only through Settings > Apps or device search.
Action
App drawer > Menu (â‹®) > Home settings: Open app drawer by swiping up from bottom screen edge, tap three-dot menu in top-right corner.
Hide apps > Select apps: Tap “Hide apps” option, check boxes next to apps you want hidden, tap “Done.”
Verification: Apps disappear from drawer immediately, remain accessible via Settings > Apps > See all apps list.
Purpose
Stock Android’s native hiding feature works across Google Pixel, Motorola, and other devices running pure Android without manufacturer modifications.
Step 4: What Settings Do You Configure for Third-Party Launcher App Hiding?
Install Nova Launcher 7.0+, Microsoft Launcher 6.0+, or Action Launcher from Google Play Store, set as default launcher, access launcher settings, enable “Hide apps” feature. Select apps to hide, apply changes, apps vanish from drawer while preserving full functionality.
Action
Install third-party launcher: Download Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, or Apex Launcher from Play Store, tap “Set as default” when prompted.
Launcher Settings > App drawer > Hide apps: Long-press home screen, tap “Settings,” navigate to “App drawer” or “Drawer settings.”
Select and apply: Tap “Hide apps,” checkmark apps to conceal, tap “Save” or “Apply” to confirm.
Purpose
Third-party launchers offer advanced customization options beyond stock launcher capabilities, including password protection and gesture controls for hidden apps.
Alternative Method: Using Secure Folder on Samsung Devices
Method A (App Drawer Method)
- Time: 2 minutes
- Complexity: Beginner
- Best for: Quick hiding from casual viewing without encryption
- Compatibility: Most Android launchers including Stock Android, One UI, OxygenOS
Method B (Secure Folder)
- Time: 5 minutes
- Complexity: Intermediate
- Best for: Maximum privacy with encryption and password protection
- Compatibility: Samsung Galaxy devices running One UI 2.0+, requires Samsung account
Choose Method A when you need quick screen organization without security concerns.
Choose Method B when you require biometric authentication and encrypted app storage for sensitive applications.
How to Hide Apps on Android
Hiding apps on Android removes applications from the home screen and app drawer while keeping them installed and functional on the device.
Users need this when organizing their interface, maintaining privacy from others who access their phone, or decluttering their screen from pre-installed bloatware.
This guide covers 4 primary methods requiring 2-5 minutes and Android 10 or later.
Prerequisites
Required specifications:
- Android device running Android 10, Android 11, Android 12, Android 13, or Android 14
- Basic familiarity with Settings menu navigation
- Device unlock access (PIN, password, or biometric authentication)
- Time required: 2-5 minutes depending on method
- Launcher compatibility verification for your specific launcher version
Step 1: How Do You Hide Apps Using the App Drawer Method?
Open app drawer, long-press the target app icon until options appear, select “Remove from Home” or “Hide,” confirm the action. App disappears from home screen and app drawer but remains installed and accessible through Settings > Apps.
Action
Settings > Home screen > Hide apps: Navigate to launcher settings by long-pressing empty space on home screen, tap “Home settings” or gear icon.
Select apps to hide: Tap “Hide apps” option, checkmark apps you want to conceal, tap “Apply” or “Done.”
Expected result: Selected apps vanish from app drawer and home screen while remaining functional in Settings > Apps > See all apps.
Purpose
This method provides quick app visibility control without affecting app functionality or requiring additional security layers.
Step 2: Where Do You Access Hidden Apps Settings on Samsung Devices?
Navigate Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder > Install (if first time), create Samsung account credentials or sign in, set lock type (PIN, password, pattern, fingerprint). Move apps into Secure Folder which encrypts and hides them behind authentication.
Action
Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder: Open Settings app, scroll to “Biometrics and Security” section, tap Secure Folder.
Authentication setup: Select lock method (Pattern, PIN, Password, or Fingerprint), confirm your choice, agree to terms.
Add apps to folder: Tap “Add apps” inside Secure Folder, select apps from list, tap “Add” to move them into encrypted space.
Purpose
Secure Folder creates password-protected, encrypted storage space for sensitive apps using Samsung Knox security platform on One UI devices.
Step 3: How Do You Hide Apps Using Stock Android Launcher Settings?
Access app drawer, tap three-dot menu icon or “Home settings,” select “Hide apps” from options list, choose apps to conceal by tapping checkboxes. Hidden apps remain installed but invisible in drawer, accessible only through Settings > Apps or device search.
Action
App drawer > Menu (â‹®) > Home settings: Open app drawer by swiping up from bottom screen edge, tap three-dot menu in top-right corner.
Hide apps > Select apps: Tap “Hide apps” option, check boxes next to apps you want hidden, tap “Done.”
Verification: Apps disappear from drawer immediately, remain accessible via Settings > Apps > See all apps list.
Purpose
Stock Android’s native hiding feature works across Google Pixel, Motorola, and other devices running pure Android without manufacturer modifications.
Step 4: What Settings Do You Configure for Third-Party Launcher App Hiding?
Install Nova Launcher 7.0+, Microsoft Launcher 6.0+, or Action Launcher from Google Play Store, set as default launcher, access launcher settings, enable “Hide apps” feature. Select apps to hide, apply changes, apps vanish from drawer while preserving full functionality.
Action
Install third-party launcher: Download Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, or Apex Launcher from Play Store, tap “Set as default” when prompted.
Launcher Settings > App drawer > Hide apps: Long-press home screen, tap “Settings,” navigate to “App drawer” or “Drawer settings.”
Select and apply: Tap “Hide apps,” checkmark apps to conceal, tap “Save” or “Apply” to confirm.
Purpose
Third-party launchers offer advanced customization options beyond stock launcher capabilities, including password protection and gesture controls for hidden apps.
Alternative Method: Using Secure Folder on Samsung Devices
Method A (App Drawer Method)
- Time: 2 minutes
- Complexity: Beginner
- Best for: Quick hiding from casual viewing without encryption
- Compatibility: Most Android launchers including Stock Android, One UI, OxygenOS
Method B (Secure Folder)
- Time: 5 minutes
- Complexity: Intermediate
- Best for: Maximum privacy with encryption and password protection
- Compatibility: Samsung Galaxy devices running One UI 2.0+, requires Samsung account
Choose Method A when you need quick screen organization without security concerns.
Choose Method B when you require biometric authentication and encrypted app storage for sensitive applications.
Verification
Confirm the process worked correctly through these checks:
App drawer inspection: Open app drawer, scroll through all visible apps, verify hidden apps absent from list.
Home screen check: Swipe through all home screen pages, confirm app icons removed from display.
Device search test: Pull down notification shade, tap search bar, type hidden app name to verify it still exists on device.
Settings verification: Navigate Settings > Apps > See all apps, locate hidden app in complete list, confirm “Installed” status shows app remains functional.
Troubleshooting
Issue: Hidden app still appears in app drawer after following steps
Solution: Clear launcher cache by navigating Settings > Apps > [Your Launcher] > Storage > Clear Cache, restart device, repeat hiding process from Step 1.
Issue: Cannot find “Hide Apps” option in launcher settings
Solution: Verify launcher version supports hiding feature (check Google Play Store for updates), install Nova Launcher 7.0+ or Microsoft Launcher 6.0+ which include native app concealment.
Issue: Secure Folder option missing on Samsung device
Solution: Navigate Settings > Biometrics and Security > Secure Folder > Install, requires Samsung account login and Android 11 (One UI 3.0) minimum.
Issue: Hidden apps reappear after device restart
Solution: Re-apply hiding settings through launcher preferences, disable automatic app organization in Settings > Home screen > Auto-add widgets, ensure launcher isn’t resetting to default configuration.
Issue: Pre-installed system apps cannot be hidden using standard methods
Solution: System apps require different approach through Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Disable, or use ADB commands for complete removal following system app deletion procedures.
Device-Specific Variations
Google Pixel Devices (Stock Android 13+)
Path: Settings > Apps > See all apps > [App Name] > Disable
Result: App hidden from drawer but not uninstalled, data preserved, can re-enable anytime through same menu.
OnePlus Devices (OxygenOS 12+)
Path: Settings > Utilities > Hidden Space > Add apps
Authentication: Requires fingerprint or password setup, creates encrypted space separate from main interface.
Xiaomi Devices (MIUI 13+)
Path: Settings > Apps > App Lock > Hidden Apps
Result: Apps moved to secure folder requiring password authentication, accessible through specific gesture or Settings menu only.
Motorola Devices (Android 12+)
Path: App drawer > Long-press app > Remove from Home or Hide
Note: Stock Android implementation, follows Google Pixel methodology without manufacturer customization.
Oppo Devices (ColorOS 12+)
Path: Settings > Privacy > Hide apps > Set password > Select apps
Access: Hidden apps accessible through Calculator app (enter password + equal sign) or Settings > Privacy > Hide apps.
Realme Devices (Realme UI 3.0+)
Path: Settings > Privacy > Hide apps > Enable feature > Choose apps
Authentication: Password-protected access, apps removed from drawer and home screen completely.
Related Processes
After hiding apps successfully, you might need these related procedures:
Unhiding applications: Reverse the hiding process by accessing launcher settings to restore app visibility to drawer and home screen.
Additional security layers: Implement app-specific locks with authentication requirements for sensitive applications beyond simple concealment.
Blocking app access: Configure parental controls or Digital Wellbeing restrictions to prevent app usage entirely rather than just hiding icons.
Managing bloatware: Remove unwanted pre-installed apps permanently through system app uninstallation methods when hiding isn’t sufficient.
Organizing app groups: Structure visible apps into logical folders and categories for improved home screen management after hiding unnecessary applications.
FAQ on How To Hide Apps On Android
Can I hide apps without installing a third-party launcher?
Yes. Most Android devices running Android 10 or later include native app hiding through launcher settings.
Samsung Galaxy devices offer Secure Folder, OnePlus provides Hidden Space, and Xiaomi includes App Lock. Stock Android devices like Google Pixel support app disabling through Settings > Apps.
Will hidden apps still send notifications?
Hidden apps continue functioning normally and send notifications to your notification shade.
App concealment only affects home screen and app drawer visibility, not background processes or notification settings. Configure Settings > Apps > Notifications to disable alerts separately if needed.
Can someone find my hidden apps?
Hidden apps remain discoverable through Settings > Apps > See all apps or device search bar.
For stronger protection, use Samsung’s Secure Folder, OnePlus Hidden Space, or Xiaomi App Lock which require biometric authentication or password access beyond simple app drawer concealment.
Do hidden apps still consume battery and mobile data?
Yes. Hiding apps doesn’t affect their system resource usage or background activity.
Apps continue running background processes, consuming battery, and using mobile data exactly as before. Check Settings > Battery or Settings > Network to monitor resource consumption regardless of visibility status.
Can I hide pre-installed system apps and bloatware?
Most launchers can’t hide system apps through standard methods.
Disable pre-installed apps via Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Disable instead. Some manufacturers allow system app hiding through their custom launcher settings on One UI, MIUI, or ColorOS devices.
How do I unhide apps after hiding them?
Access your launcher settings through long-pressing the home screen, navigate to “Hide apps” or “Hidden apps,” uncheck apps to restore.
For Secure Folder on Samsung, open the folder, tap menu, select “Remove from Secure Folder” to return apps to main interface.
Does hiding apps delete my data or app settings?
No. Hiding apps preserves all data, settings, login credentials, and downloaded content.
Apps remain fully installed on your device with complete functionality. Only app visibility changes in the drawer and home screen while app files, cache, and user data stay intact.
Can I password protect hidden apps for extra security?
Stock Android hiding doesn’t include password protection by default.
Use Samsung Secure Folder, OnePlus Hidden Space, or third-party launchers like Nova Launcher with app lock features. These require fingerprint, PIN, or password authentication to access concealed applications.
Will hidden apps still receive automatic updates from Google Play Store?
Yes. Hidden apps continue receiving automatic updates when connected to Wi-Fi.
Google Play Store updates all installed applications regardless of home screen or app drawer visibility. Check My apps & games in Play Store to verify update status for hidden applications.
Does the hiding method work the same on all Android devices?
No. Each manufacturer implements different hiding features across One UI, OxygenOS, MIUI, ColorOS, and Stock Android.
Samsung uses Secure Folder, OnePlus offers Hidden Space, Xiaomi provides App Lock. Google Pixel and Motorola devices follow standard Android methods through launcher settings or app disabling.
Conclusion
Mastering how to hide apps on Android protects your device security and eliminates screen clutter from unwanted bloatware.
Whether you’re using Samsung’s encrypted Secure Folder, OnePlus Hidden Space with biometric authentication, or simple app drawer concealment through stock launcher settings, each method serves different privacy needs.
The right approach depends on your Android version and manufacturer. One UI, MIUI, OxygenOS, and ColorOS each offer unique app management features.
Third-party launchers like Nova Launcher and Microsoft Launcher provide additional customization beyond native options.
Start with the basic app drawer method for quick organization. Upgrade to password-protected folders when handling sensitive applications requiring stronger privacy controls.
Your apps remain functional and updated regardless of visibility status.
With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.
A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.
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