How to Hide Apps on Android: Native, Private, Launcher, and App Methods with a 100% Complete and Updated Guide

Hiding apps on Android can be vital to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information.Whether you want to keep certain banking apps, messaging apps, games, corporate tools away from prying eyes, or simply organize your screen and app drawer, there are multiple methods to hide applications on Android, adapted to both native functions depending on the brand, as well as third-party alternatives and new additions to the Android operating system in its most recent versions.

Next, we present a Complete and detailed analysis on how to hide apps on Android, breaking down the different native, private, launcher, and app methods, along with practical tips, warnings, and recommendations for choosing the perfect solution for your needs.

Native Methods for Hiding Apps on Android: A Guide by Brand and Version

Many Android devices integrate specific functions to hide applications directly from the system settings and starting screenHowever, the availability and name of the feature vary depending on the manufacturer, customization layer, and Android version. Let's look at the most representative cases:

Hide apps on Samsung (One UI)

• Open the app drawer and press the three dots in the upper right corner.
• Choose Home screen settings.
• Look for the option Hide apps and check the apps you want to hide.
• Confirm by clicking on DoneThe selected apps will no longer appear on the Home screen and in the app drawer.

Note: To show the apps again, repeat the process and uncheck the hidden apps.

Hide apps on Xiaomi (MIUI)

• Opens Settings and access Applications.
• Go to Application blocking and touches Hidden apps.
• From Manage hidden apps select the ones you want to hide.
• To access hidden apps, pinch your fingers together on the home screen (as if zooming out), log in, and enter the hidden list.

The feature is also used to block applications using PIN or biometric data..

Hide apps on OnePlus (OxygenOS and ColorOS)

• Open the app drawer and swipe right to enter hidden space o Application blocking (depending on version).
• press the symbol + to add apps to the hidden space.
• Set a PIN for optional extra protection.
• Hidden apps won't appear in the regular list or in recent tasks.

Hide apps on LG

• Long press on the home screen and go to Home screen settings.
• Choose Hide apps and choose the ones you want to hide.

Google Pixel, Motorola, others (pure Android)

On devices running pure Android (Pixel, Motorola, Nokia, etc.), there is still no standard built-in feature to hide apps, although recent versions have incorporated it. Private space (see section below), or allow a similar effect to be achieved through user profiles and third-party launchers.

Huawei and HONOR

• Huawei and HONOR include Private space: Go to Settings > Security & Privacy > PrivateSpace (requires initial setup), you can install apps only available there.

If your customization layer offers the option, use it; it's the simplest and most discreet way to hide apps, although you should be aware that some system tools still show the existence of the hidden app.

How Private Space Works on Android: The Safe for Your Apps

El Private space It is one of the most important new features of Android in its latest versions. It is a independent environment or profile within the device itself that protects, isolates, and hides applications and files from the view of the primary user and other profiles.

Its goal is that you can Install sensitive applications in an inaccessible and “camouflaged” space, even being able to have two separate instances of the same app (for example, two WhatsApp accounts, one for work and another for private use, etc.).

Advantages of Private Space

• Offer additional safety barrier with PIN, pattern, password or independent biometrics.
• Allows you to completely hide the existence of selected apps and files, which will not appear in the main section.
• Possibility of having a separate Google account for the private space.
• Manual or automatic locking of the space when the device goes into standby, restarts, or under custom settings.
• Apps installed in Private Space do not appear in the search bar, recent tasks, or notifications (unless unlocked).
• Apps can be installed from the Play Store only within Private Space without affecting the main profile.

Limitations of Private Space

• Not available on all devices or all customization layers.
• It doesn't work if you have more than four profiles/users on your phone.
• Certain system apps and third-party launchers may not be fully compatible.
• Hidden app shortcuts cannot be added to the Home screen in the main space.
• Deleting Private Space deletes all apps and data stored there, with no backup (except for the cloud for each app).

How to use Private Space step by step

1. Opens Settings and search Security and privacy.
2. Enter the section Privacy and select Private space.
3. Set up an unlock method (PIN, pattern, fingerprint… you can even use a different lock than your primary phone).
4. Create (optional) a separate Google account for Private Space.
5. Once logged in, you'll have a clean space where you can install apps directly through the Play Store or third-party installers.

To lock or unlock the private space You can do this manually from the menu, or set up automatic lock after closing the screen, inactivity, or when the device restarts.

Hide the existence of private space

The Private Space can be configured so that, once locked, don't even show the container in the app drawer, thus offering maximum discretion. Only you, with your credentials, will be able to access its content.

Privacy and security considerations when using Private Space

• Apps and data in PrivateSpace are not synced or shared with the main space.
• Widgets cannot be installed or apps dragged to the main desktop from PrivateSpace.
• Automatic backups of apps/data in Private Space are not possible on Android.
• Some advanced tools (such as ADB or rooted developers) may be able to detect the existence of the private space, but not access its contents without credentials.

Hide apps on Android using third-party apps: Launchers and specialized apps

If your device doesn't have a native option to hide apps, or if you're looking for more advanced features and customization, specialized launchers and apps are the best alternative..

Let's review the most used launchers and the most recognized apps for hiding apps, their advantages, caveats, and how to use them.

1. Launchers with options to hide apps

• Nova Launcher: One of the most popular and flexible launchers. Its Prime version lets you easily hide apps from the app drawer. It also lets you change names and icons. Steps:
  1. Install Nova Launcher and set it as default.
  2. Go to Nova Settings > App Drawer > Hide Apps.
  3. Check the apps you want to hide.
• Microsoft Launcher: In addition to customization, it includes a section for hidden apps under Settings > Hidden Apps.
• Niagara Launcher: Its interface hides access to apps except for favorites “by default,” but it also allows you to hide specific apps.

Advantages of using a launcher:

• They do not require root and allow aesthetic flexibility.
• Most allow you to camouflage apps, change their icons/names, or even create “hidden folders.”
• Its adoption is rapid and reversible.

Warnings:

• Hidden apps can still be accessed from Settings > Apps, Google Play, or System Tools.
• Some third-party launchers may ask for advanced permissions: always download only from official sources (Google Play, developer websites).
• The feature may only be available in the premium version (e.g. Nova Prime).

2. Apps to hide apps and data

• App hider: Allows you to import apps into its hidden container, even hiding them under a calculator name and icon. Requires special configuration and permissions.
• CalculatorVault: Another option to camouflage apps and files under the appearance of a harmless app.
• Vault: Specialized for hiding photos, videos, and apps, it password-protects content and has cloud backup functions.
• App Lock: Although its specialty is blocking access to apps using a PIN or pattern, it can also hide apps from the menu.

Very important warning: There are apps that spoof functions or can act as malware. Check reviews on Google Play and only download from reputable developers.

App hiding apps They frequently request many permitsPoor management can compromise your privacy. Always check what permissions you grant.

Disable applications to hide them from the main menu

Disabling an app is a simple native method to hide pre-installed or system apps that you cannot uninstall.It is especially useful against the bloatware of some brands.

1. Accede to Settings> Applications.
2. Select the app you want to hide.
3. Press on Deactivate / Disable.

What happens when you disable an app:

• The app disappears from the drawer and the home screen.
• It cannot run in the background or receive updates.
• It can be reactivated manually by following the same route and pressing “Activate”.

Limitations: On some phones, disabled apps still appear in Settings> Applications, even if they are not visible to other users.

For critical system apps, the button Disable may appear dimmed or unavailable – not all can be hidden.

Samsung Secure Folder: Protects apps, files, and data

On Samsung devices there is an additional tool, the Secure Folder, which allows you to move applications, photos, files and any data to a protected and encrypted space, accessible only with a password, PIN or biometrics.

1. Accede to Settings > Security & Privacy > Secure Folder (or search for “secure folder” directly).
2. Set up your locking method and log in with your Samsung account.
3. Go into the secure folder and use the + to add apps, files or download them from the Play Store directly there.

The secure folder:

• Completely hides apps (and files) from normal space.
• Protects contained data with additional encryption.
• Allows for discreet and controlled notifications.
• No root or external apps required.

Like PrivateSpace, Secure Folder maintains privacy even if someone accesses your primary user.

Create or use user and guest profiles to separate and hide applications

Android has allowed you to create for years multiple user profiles, each with its own apps, settings, and data. It's an excellent solution when you want lend your phone to someone else without them seeing your apps or personal data.

1. Opens Settings > System > Multiple Users (o Users and accounts (according to the manufacturer).
2. Press on Add user or guest. Assign a name.
3. The new user will only have access to pre-installed apps and will need to install their own.
4. To switch profiles, pull down the notification bar, tap the user icon, and select the profile.

This feature is ideal for parents who lend their mobile phone to their children, professionals who separate work and leisure, or any circumstance in which you want a total privacy barrier. Do you want to learn how to hide apps on Android step by step?

Warning: Not all Android devices support multiple users, especially some Samsung and budget models. Check your model before trying.

Other advanced methods to hide apps on Android: changing the name, icon, and using root (not recommended)

In addition to the above methods, there are advanced alternatives:

• Change the app name and iconUsing customizable launchers, you can give any app generic names ("Utility," "Calculator") and a neutral icon, making it difficult for others to identify. It's not foolproof, but it does add a subtle layer.
• Root the device and install advanced bloatware hiding or removal apps (example: Titanium Backup).

IMPORTANT: Rooting voids your warranty, can leave your device vulnerable, and isn't necessary in most modern cases. Avoid it unless you're an experienced user!

How to find or show hidden apps on Android

If you suspect an app is hidden on your device (or if you want to unhide apps you've hidden), you have several options:

• Check out Settings> Applications: All installed apps appear here, whether they are hidden in the launcher or not.
• In third-party launchers, go to the hidden apps section in Settings.
• On Xiaomi, zoom in on the home screen and check “Hidden apps.”
• On Samsung go to Secure Folder or Settings > Apps.
• With user profiles, switch to the primary user to see all installed apps.

To show hidden apps Follow the reverse process you used to hide them (uncheck/move the app back to its original location).

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiding Apps on Android

• Is it possible to completely hide an app so that it is not recognizable?
  Not completely: even if it's not displayed on the screen, its presence can be detected from Settings or Google Play. But visual privacy is easily achieved.
• Can I hide apps without root?
  Yes, all the methods described here are for non-rooted devices.
• What should I do if the feature doesn't appear on my phone?
  Install a third-party launcher, or use user profiles.
• Will notifications from hidden apps appear?
  It depends on the method: in Private Space and Secure Folder you can configure them to only appear after unlocking.
• Do hidden apps consume resources?
  If they're disabled, no. If they're only hidden via the launcher, they could continue running in the background like any conventional app.

Additional tips to maintain your privacy on Android

• Use passwords and biometric authentication both on mobile and in Secure Folder and Private Space.
• Disable sensitive notifications so that they do not appear on the lock screen.
• Keep your system and apps updated to avoid security vulnerabilities.
• Check the permissions of the hiding apps: Do not install suspicious apps.
• Consider a VPN service if you are looking for maximum online privacy.
• Do not use these types of tools for illegal activities., since legitimate privacy is not at odds with legality.

Thanks to the diversity of methods, options and applications, Hiding apps on Android is possible and within reach of any user., regardless of your technical level. From the simplest options built into your phone to advanced solutions like Private Space, launchers, and specialized apps, there's always an option to protect your privacy and organize your device exactly the way you need it.