iOS · iPhone & iPad
Hide or lock apps on iPhone
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
On supported current iOS versions, touch and hold an app, choose Require Face ID, Touch ID, or Passcode, then choose Hide and Require Authentication when available.
Check the starting state
Before changing hiding or locking an iPhone app, confirm a supported iOS version, device authentication, the exact app, and whether hiding it would affect notifications, widgets, shared data, or family use. Keep the current state, exact message, and any recent change available so each result can be compared.
Choose the supported path
Use Require Face ID, Touch ID, or Passcode and Hide only when offered; system and certain built-in apps cannot be hidden, and the app still exists on the device.
Check eligibility
Some built-in apps cannot be hidden or locked, and hiding is available only on supported current iOS versions.
Open the app menu
Touch and hold the app on the Home Screen and choose Require Face ID, Touch ID, or Passcode.
Choose hide or lock
Select Require Authentication to lock it, or Hide and Require Authentication when offered.
Find hidden apps
Open the App Library, select Hidden, and authenticate. Hidden apps may still appear in places Apple lists, such as Screen Time or purchase history.
Verify the result
the app moves to the Hidden folder, requires authentication, and can be restored without losing its data. Repeat the original task once more after reopening the relevant app, connection, or Windows session so a temporary result is not mistaken for a fix.
Troubleshoot hiding or locking an iPhone app
If the Hide option is unavailable for that app, authentication fails, Screen Time or device management controls it, or the user expects deletion rather than concealment, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Preserve the exact error, versions, device or account scope, and failed step before using the linked official support channel.
Video walkthrough
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: iPhone & iPad.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.