It’s important to clarify what “hidden apps” means on an iPhone, as there are a few different ways apps can be less visible. You can hide entire Home Screen pages, which removes all the apps on those pages from view.
1. Apps in the App Library:
What it is:
The App Library, introduced in iOS 14, organizes all your apps. Even if an app isn’t on your Home Screen, it’s still in the App Library.
How to access:
Swipe left past all your Home Screen pages.
You can then browse the categorized folders or use the search bar at the top to find a specific app.
2. Hidden Home Screen Pages:
What it is:
You can hide entire Home Screen pages, which removes all the apps on those pages from view.
How to access:
Touch and hold an empty area on your Home Screen.
Tap the dots at the bottom of the screen.
Uncheck the circles of the pages you want to unhide.
3. Hiding individual apps with iOS 18 features:
What it is:
With iOS 18, Apple has introduced the ability to hide individual apps and place them within a hidden folder within the app library. This also requires authentication to view these apps.
How to access:
Swipe left past all your Home Screen pages to get to the App Library.
Scroll down to find the Hidden folder.
Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
4. App Store Hidden Purchases:
What it is:
You can hide app purchases in your App Store history.
How to access:
Open the App Store.
Tap your profile icon.
Tap your Apple ID.
Scroll down and tap “Hidden Purchases.”
5. Using Spotlight Search:
What it is:
Spotlight Search can find almost anything on your iPhone, including apps.
