How to Hide Apps on Android

Managing apps on your Android device is essential for maintaining optimal performance and organization. 

Whether you need to free up storage space by deleting unused apps or maintain privacy by hiding certain apps, knowing how to effectively manage your apps can greatly enhance your user experience.

In this guide, we'll provide clear and straightforward instructions on how to delete and hide apps on your Android device.

How to Delete Apps on Android

Deleting apps frees up storage and improves device performance. Here's how to get rid of unwanted apps:

Deleting Apps on Android

Using the Home Screen or App Drawer

1. Tap and Hold: Press and hold the app icon you want to delete.

2. Uninstall: Select "Uninstall" or drag the app icon to the uninstall option that appears.

Using Settings

1. Open Settings: Go to the Settings on your Android smartphone.

2. Apps & Notifications: Navigate to Apps & notifications.

3. Select App: Find and tap on the app you wish to delete.

4. Uninstall: click on "Uninstall" to remove the app from your device.

Handling Pre-installed Apps (Bloatware)

Some apps cannot be fully removed but can be disabled:

1. Go to Settings > Apps.

2. Select the pre-installed app.

3. Tap Disable to stop it from running or appearing.

Deleting an app removes it from your device, but any associated data stored on the cloud (like Google Drive) remains intact unless deleted separately.

How to Hide Apps on Android

Using Built-in Options (if available)

1. Open App Drawer: Access the app drawer on your Android device.

2. Menu: Tap on the three dots or menu icon.

3. Hide Apps: Select "Hide apps" and choose the apps you want to hide.

Many Android devices come with pre-installed options to hide apps.

1. Samsung Devices:

   • Open the Settings app.
   • Navigate to Home Screen > Hide Apps.
   • Select the apps you want to hide and tap Done.

2. OnePlus Devices:

   • Open the app drawer and swipe right to access the Hidden Space folder.
   • Tap the + icon, select apps to hide, and confirm.

3. Xiaomi Devices (MIUI):

   • Go to Settings > Apps > App Lock.
   • Enable App Lock, then toggle on the Hide Apps option for the desired apps.

Using Third-Party Launchers

1. Install Launcher: Download and install a launcher like Nova Launcher from the App Store.

2. Open Launcher Settings: Access the settings within the launcher.

3. App Drawer Settings: Navigate to the app drawer settings.

4. Hide Apps: Select the option to hide apps and choose the apps you want to conceal.

Using Third-Party Apps

1. Download App: Install an app like App Hider from the App Store.

2. Open and Setup: Open the app and follow the setup instructions.

3. Hide Apps: Choose the apps you want to hide within the third-party app.

If you hide an app, it remains installed and fully functional but is no longer visible in the app drawer. Ensure you remember where and how you've hidden it for future access.

Best Practices for App Management

1. Regular Reviews: Periodically review all installed apps and remove those you no longer use.

2. Use Folders: Organize apps into folders based on categories (e.g., productivity, social, entertainment) to keep your home screen tidy.

3. Offload Unused Apps: Enable the "Offload Unused Apps" feature to automatically remove apps you don’t frequently use while keeping their data.

4. Limit App Permissions: Review and manage app permissions to ensure only necessary access is granted, enhancing privacy and security.

5. Keep Apps Updated: Regularly update your apps to benefit from the latest features, security updates, and performance improvements.

6. Monitor Storage Usage: Check your device's storage settings to see which apps are taking up the most space and take appropriate action.

FAQs: Android App Management

1. Can I hide apps without using third-party tools?

Yes, many Android devices, like Samsung and OnePlus, have built-in features to hide apps in the settings or app drawer.

2. What happens to app data when I delete an app?

Deleting an app removes it from your device, but associated data (like backups on Google Drive) may remain unless manually deleted.

3. Can I delete pre-installed apps?

Most pre-installed apps (bloatware) can’t be uninstalled, but you can disable them to stop them from running or appearing on your device.

4. How do I recover a hidden app?

To unhide an app, revisit the settings or app launcher used to hide it and toggle it back to visible.

5. Are there risks in using third-party apps to hide or delete apps?

Some third-party tools may pose security risks or impact device performance. Always use reputable apps from trusted developers.

6. How can I check which apps I haven’t used in a while?

Android 12+ devices show unused apps in Settings > Apps > Unused Apps, or you can manually review your app usage.

Conclusion

Effectively managing your apps on an Android device can significantly enhance its performance, organization, and privacy. 

By regularly deleting unused apps, hiding those you want to keep private, and following best practices for app management, you can keep your device running smoothly and efficiently. 

Whether you use built-in features, third-party launchers, or specialized apps, the methods outlined in this guide will help you take control of your Android app management. Stay organized, optimize your device, and enjoy a clutter-free Android experience!