How to Lock and Hide Apps on Your iPhone with iOS 18
iOS 18 introduces a handy feature that lets you lock and hide apps on your iPhone using Face ID or passcode. This helps prevent kids or others from accessing sensitive apps or making unintended purchases. While some core apps can't be locked, most third-party and many Apple apps can be secured or hidden in a special folder to keep your privacy intact.
If you’ve ever handed your iPhone to a child only to find they’ve wandered into apps or settings you didn’t want them to access, iOS 18 has a solution. Apple’s latest update introduces the ability to lock and hide apps, adding a crucial layer of security and privacy.
Locking Apps with Face ID
To lock an app, simply long press its icon and tap "Require Face ID." Confirm by tapping it again. From now on, opening that app requires your Face ID or passcode. This is especially useful to prevent kids from making accidental purchases or accessing sensitive information.
Note that some core apps like Camera, Find My, and Settings cannot be locked, but most others—including Messages, App Store, and third-party apps—can be secured this way.
Hiding Apps for Extra Privacy
Hiding apps follows a similar process but adds another layer of discretion. After long pressing an app, tap "Require Face ID," then select "Hide and Require Face ID." This removes the app icon and name from your home screen and places it in a Hidden folder within the App Library.
Keep in mind this feature currently works mainly with third-party apps like Instagram and Twitter. Hidden apps won’t send notifications, reducing distractions and protecting your privacy.
To access hidden apps, swipe to your App Library, scroll to the bottom, and open the Hidden folder. Face ID or passcode verification is required to view these apps.
Unhiding and Unlocking Apps
To remove locks or unhide an app, long press it, tap "Don't Require Face ID," and authenticate. The app will unlock and, if hidden, be removed from the Hidden folder.
Unhiding doesn’t automatically restore the app icon to your home screen. To add it back, find the app in the App Library, long press, and select "Add to Home Screen."
With these new controls, iOS 18 empowers users to better manage their device privacy and security, especially when sharing their iPhone with kids or others. It’s a simple yet powerful way to keep your digital life under your control.
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