Apple introduced a new feature in iOS 18 that allows users to lock and hide apps on their devices. This feature has generated significant interest, with Google searches for “How to hide apps on iOS” increasing by 1,250 percent and similar queries like “How can I find out if my husband is cheating” and “How to unhide apps on iPhone” seeing spikes of 200 percent and 80 percent, respectively, after the announcement at WWDC.
To lock an app, users can long press on the app they want to lock and select the option “Require Face ID” from the list of options. This will prompt a window to appear, asking if you want to require Face ID or hide the app and require Face ID. By choosing “Require Face ID,” the app becomes locked to anyone else. The next time the app is opened, Face ID will scan to confirm the user’s identity before granting access.
Hiding apps follows a similar process. Users can long press on the app they want to hide and select the option “Require Face ID.” Instead of tapping “Require Face ID,” they need to tap “Hide and Require Face ID.” This will remove the app from the home screen, but it will still be accessible in a “Hidden Apps” folder at the bottom of the “Apps” page. Opening this folder requires Face ID.
It’s important to note that not all apps can be hidden. Built-in apps like Calculator, Maps, Clock, Stocks, and Photos cannot be hidden. However, most third-party apps can be hidden, including Spotify, Venmo, and mobile banking apps.
To unlock or unhide an app, users can long press on the app again and tap “Don’t Require Face ID” from the app shortcuts. To unhide an app, users can swipe through to the App Library and scroll down to the Hidden Apps folder. After verifying their identity with Face ID, they can long press on the app they want to unhide and tap “Don’t Require Face ID.” Unfortunately, unhiding an app does not automatically reappear it on the home screen, so users will need to manually add it back.
While this new feature provides increased privacy and security for iOS users, it’s worth noting that it may not be foolproof. Some apps cannot be hidden, and it’s unclear if this limitation is permanent or will be addressed in future updates. Additionally, the process of unlocking or unhiding apps could be improved to automatically reappear them on the home screen.
Overall, the ability to lock and hide apps in iOS 18 is a valuable addition for users who prioritize privacy or have specific reasons for keeping their app behavior concealed. It gives them control over their device and ensures that only authorized individuals can access certain apps. As iOS 18 continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if Apple addresses any limitations and further refines this feature to meet user needs.