Want to keep some apps on your iPhone 13 a little more private? This guide provides thorough directions on how to discreetly hide apps, keeping them off your home screen but easily accessible when needed. We'll cover several methods, ensuring you find the perfect solution for your needs.
Method 1: Removing Apps from Your Home Screen (Without Deleting)
This is the simplest method to make an app less visible. It doesn't hide the app in the truest sense, as it remains installed and accessible, but it removes the icon from your home screen.
Steps:
- Locate the app: Find the app you want to remove from your home screen.
- Long-press: Press and hold the app icon until the icons begin to wiggle. This activates "jiggle mode."
- Tap the "X": A small "X" will appear in the top-left corner of each app icon. Tap the "X" on the app you wish to hide.
- Confirm removal: A pop-up will ask if you want to delete the app. Tap "Remove App." This removes the app from your home screen but leaves it installed on your iPhone. You can always find it through your App Library.
Accessing the Hidden App:
To access the app again, you'll need to use your iPhone's App Library. Simply swipe right from your home screen until you see the App Library, then search for the app alphabetically or use the search bar at the top.
Method 2: Using Folders to Organize and Conceal Apps (Partial Hiding)
This method doesn't technically hide apps but groups them within folders, making them less prominent on your home screen. It's an effective way to declutter and organize your iPhone while subtly concealing less-used apps.
Steps:
- Jiggle Mode: Activate jiggle mode as described in Method 1.
- Drag and Drop: Drag and drop the apps you want to group together.
- Release to Create Folder: Once you have selected two or more apps, release your finger. A folder will automatically be created.
- Rename the Folder (Optional): You can rename the folder by tapping the folder's name and typing a less revealing name.
This method keeps the apps accessible but visually groups them, making them less noticeable than individual icons scattered across the home screen.
Method 3: Utilizing Third-Party App Hiders (Advanced Method)
While Apple doesn't natively offer a complete app-hiding feature, some third-party apps claim to offer more robust hiding capabilities. Use caution when installing third-party apps, always ensuring they come from reputable sources and reading reviews carefully. These apps often use a lock feature, adding an extra layer of security. Remember, you'll need to find and use the third-party app itself to access your hidden apps.
Important Considerations:
- App Library: Remember that even if you remove an app from your home screen, it's still accessible through the App Library. This is Apple's intended functionality.
- Security Concerns: Be cautious about storing sensitive information within any app you hide. Stronger password protection and multi-factor authentication are always recommended for heightened security.
- iOS Updates: App hiding methods, especially those relying on third-party apps, might be affected by iOS updates. Keep this in mind.
By following these methods, you can effectively manage the visibility of apps on your iPhone 13, balancing convenience and privacy. Remember to choose the method that best suits your specific needs and comfort level.
