To hide apps on an iPhone running iOS 18 or later, follow these steps:
- Long press the app icon you want to hide until the quick actions menu appears.
- Tap Require Face ID (or Touch ID or Passcode).
- Then tap Hide and Require Face ID.
- Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
- Confirm by tapping Hide App in the menu that appears.
This will remove the app's icon and name from your home screen and place it in a special Hidden folder within the App Library. The app will no longer show notifications or be accessible without authentication
. To access hidden apps:
- Swipe right on the home screen to reach the App Library.
- Scroll to the bottom to find the Hidden folder (marked with an eye symbol crossed out).
- Tap the folder and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode to view and open the hidden apps
Additional ways to hide apps include:
- Remove from Home Screen : Long press an app, tap "Remove App," then select "Remove from Home Screen." The app remains in the App Library but disappears from the home screen
- Hide entire home screens : Press and hold the search button, tap the three dots, then uncheck the home screen(s) you want to hide
- Use Shortcuts to create disguised app icons and hide the original app
These methods help keep apps private and declutter your home screen without deleting the apps themselves. The built-in hiding feature in iOS 18 adds a layer of security by requiring biometric or passcode authentication to access hidden apps
