Are you tired of cluttered iPhone screens and want to discreetly hide apps without the hassle of deleting them? This comprehensive guide will walk you through several methods, answering your burning questions, just like those you'd find on Reddit. We'll explore techniques ranging from simple organizational strategies to leveraging iOS features you may not have known about. Let's get started!
Why Hide Apps on Your iPhone?
There are many reasons why you might want to hide apps on your iPhone. Perhaps you:
- Want a cleaner homescreen: A cluttered homescreen can be distracting and overwhelming. Hiding apps provides a streamlined and organized experience.
- Need to protect sensitive information: Some apps contain personal or sensitive data. Hiding them adds an extra layer of privacy.
- Want to restrict access for children or others: Hiding certain apps can prevent unintended use by others who may have access to your device.
- Simply want more control: Ultimately, managing your apps is about personal preference and control.
Methods to Hide Apps on iPhone Without Deleting
Let's explore the most effective methods for hiding apps on your iPhone without resorting to deletion.
1. Using App Folders
This is the simplest and most readily available method built into iOS. You can group similar apps into folders for better organization.
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How to create folders: Simply tap and hold an app icon until it wiggles. Then, drag one app onto another to create a folder. You can rename the folder by tapping the name at the top.
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Benefits: Simple, efficient, and keeps your apps organized without permanently hiding them.
2. Utilizing the "Remove App" Option (from Home Screen Only)
This is a slightly deceptive method, as it removes the app from your Home Screen but doesn't actually delete it. It remains accessible via the App Library.
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How to use it: Long-press the app icon, tap the "Remove App" option and then select "Remove from Home Screen."
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Benefits: Keeps apps readily available but cleans up your Home Screen.
3. Utilizing the App Library (iOS 14 and later)
iOS 14 introduced the App Library, automatically organizing your apps into categories. If you're not a fan of the App Library, then the above suggestions are far more suitable for you.
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Accessing the App Library: Swipe all the way to the rightmost screen on your Home Screen.
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Benefits: Automatically organizes your apps, offering a streamlined view. Apps remain accessible, however it does mean that the app can't be added to the home screen.
4. Third-Party App Hiders (Use with Caution)
While several third-party apps claim to hide apps completely, use these with extreme caution. They often require significant permissions, which may pose a privacy risk. We do not recommend the use of these apps and advise against it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Will hiding an app delete its data? No, hiding an app using the built-in iOS methods will not delete its data.
- Can I hide system apps? No, you typically cannot hide essential system apps built into iOS.
- What happens if I restore my iPhone? Hiding apps via folders or removing from the homescreen will persist after an iPhone restore. However, restoring will clear all third-party app hiders and therefore it is not recommended.
This comprehensive guide should provide a clear understanding of how to effectively hide apps on your iPhone without deleting them. Remember to prioritize the built-in iOS features for a secure and user-friendly experience. Remember to share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Happy organizing!
