Lock and Hide Your iPhone Apps for Extra Security with iOS 18

Apple’s latest update, iOS 18, has introduced a game-changing feature for those who want to maintain the privacy of their apps. If you find yourself handing your iPhone to others—like a child or a colleague—you might worry about them stumbling into sensitive areas, like your shopping apps. With iOS 18, you can now lock and hide apps, giving you peace of mind and keeping unwanted access at bay.

How to Lock Your iPhone Apps

Locking your apps adds an extra layer of security whenever someone else uses your device. Follow these simple steps:

1. Long press an app.
2. Tap Require Face ID.
3. Tap Require Face ID again.

After doing this, accessing the app will require your Face ID or passcode every time. Keep in mind that not every app can be locked. For instance, the Camera, Find My, and Settings apps are off-limits, but most of your personal and third-party apps can be secured.

How to Hide Your iPhone Apps

If you also want to hide specific apps from prying eyes, this feature works alongside app locking. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Long press an app.
2. Tap Require Face ID.
3. Tap Hide and Require Face ID.

After confirming, your app will be removed from the home screen and placed in a Hidden folder in your App Library. Note that you won’t receive any notifications from a hidden app either.

To access your hidden apps, swipe right until you’re in the App Library. Scroll down to the Hidden folder symbolized by an eye with a line through it. Enter your Face ID or passcode to reveal your hidden apps.

How to Unhide and Remove Locks

If you ever decide to unhide your apps or remove the lock, simply long press the app, then tap Don’t Require Face ID and enter your Face ID or passcode. Your locked apps will now be accessible again, and the hidden apps will be removed from the Hidden folder.

However, keep in mind that unhiding apps won’t automatically place them back on your home screen. To do that, head to your App Library, long press the app, and choose Add to Home Screen.

With features like these, iOS 18 significantly enhances user control over privacy and app management. As Apple continues to refine its operating system, users can expect even more functionalities rolling out in the future.

For more iOS insights, check out my review of iOS 26 and explore updates on features like blocking spam calls and adjusting the Liquid Glass effects.