Buzz
Keep your apps private on iPhone
Locking an app ensures its data stays hidden from areas like search and Siri. You'll only need Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode to access it. Here’s how to secure an app on iPhones running iOS 18 or later.
Securing Apps with Passwords on iPhone
To secure specific apps on your iPhone, update to iOS 18 or newer. Press and hold the app you want to lock, then choose Enable Face ID/Touch ID/Passcode. Confirm using Face ID for verification.
Steps to Follow
Securing an App
Press and hold the app you wish to secure. Locate it on one of your home screens.
- Ensure you’re running iOS 18 or later. If not, update your iPhone first.
- Note: This action locks the app only on your device. It won’t sync to iCloud.
Select Require Face ID. If this is off, choose Require Touch ID or Require Passcode.
Select Require Face ID again. This finalizes the lock.
Authenticate using Face ID. If Face ID isn’t available, use Touch ID or your passcode.
Opening a Locked App
Tap the app you want to access. For apps secured by Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, simply authenticate to unlock.
Authenticate with Face ID. If Touch ID is enabled, use your fingerprint. Otherwise, input your passcode.
- The app will be unlocked for use.
Disabling the Lock
Press and hold the app with the lock you wish to disable. A menu will appear on the screen.
Select Don't Require Face ID. Alternatively, you can choose Don't Require Touch ID or Don't Require Passcode.
Authenticate using Face ID. If Face ID is unavailable, verify with Touch ID or your passcode. This will permanently disable the lock on the app.
Concealing an App
Press and hold the app you want to conceal. Hiding an app moves it to a hidden folder in the App Library’s bottom section.
- Note: Some preinstalled apps cannot be hidden.
Select Require Face ID. If this is off, opt for Require Touch ID or Require Passcode.
Select Hide and Require Face ID. Alternatively, you can choose Touch ID or Passcode.
Select Hide App. The app will be hidden, but it may still show up in Screen Time, Battery Health, or your App Store history.
- The hidden apps folder is located at the bottom of the App Library.
- To view your hidden apps, go to Settings > Apps > Hidden Apps.
