How to Hide Apps on Android in 2026
Want to hide apps on your Android phone in 2026? In this guide, I’ll show you the latest and easiest ways to keep your apps private, whether you’re using a stock launcher, a custom skin, or a third‑party tool. Hiding apps isn’t just for privacy; it also helps declutter your home screen and protect sensitive information from casual glances.
Why Hide Apps on Your Android Device
You should hide apps, files, and folders on your Android device for many reasons. In this guide, I will share the most common motivations:
- Privacy: Keep banking, messaging, or personal apps out of sight.
- Organization: Reduce home‑screen clutter and focus on essential apps.
- Parental Control: Prevent children from accessing inappropriate or game‑only apps.
- Security: Hide apps that contain sensitive data or credentials.
Built‑In Methods to Hide Apps
1. Using the App Drawer (Stock Android)
Most stock Android devices let you hide apps directly from the app drawer.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Apps & notifications → See all apps.
- Select the app you want to hide.
- Choose Disable or Uninstall (disable hides the app without deleting data).
Disabled apps are moved to a hidden section of the drawer and won’t appear on the home screen.
2. App Library (Pixel & Recent Launchers)
Pixel phones and many recent launchers feature an App Library
