In an age where digital privacy is paramount, having control over your personal information is essential. The Samsung S20 Ultra, with its cutting-edge features and stunning design, offers robust customization options, including the ability to hide apps. Whether you want to declutter your home screen, keep sensitive content away from prying eyes, or simply maintain a neat interface, this guide will walk you through the various methods to effectively hide apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra.
Why Hide Apps on Your Samsung S20 Ultra?
Hiding apps can serve multiple purposes, such as:
- Protecting Privacy: If you share your device with family or friends, hiding certain apps can help keep your private information secure.
- Simplifying the Interface: A clutter-free home screen helps you focus on the apps you use most frequently, enhancing your overall user experience.
In essence, hiding apps not only bolsters privacy but also provides a cleaner, more organized digital environment.
Methods to Hide Apps on Samsung S20 Ultra
The Samsung S20 Ultra offers several ways to hide apps, including built-in settings and third-party applications. Let’s explore the different methods step-by-step.
Method 1: Using the Built-in App Drawer
The quickest way to hide apps on the Samsung S20 Ultra involves your home screen settings. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Home Screen Settings
- Long Press on the Home Screen: Touch and hold an empty space on your home screen until the customization options appear.
- Select Home Screen Settings: Tap on “Home screen settings” from the menu.
Step 2: Hide Apps
- Choose the ‘Hide Apps’ Option: Scroll down until you find the “Hide apps” option and select it.
- Select the Apps You Want to Hide: A list of your installed apps will appear. Tap to select the apps you want to hide.
- Confirm Your Selection: After making your selections, click on the “Apply” button to finalize your changes.
Your chosen apps will now be hidden from your home screen and app drawer, so they will not appear in your visible application list.
Method 2: Using Secure Folder
Samsung’s Secure Folder is a feature designed for storing sensitive information and applications securely. Follow these steps to use it:
Step 1: Set Up Your Secure Folder
- Navigate to Settings: Go to your device’s settings.
- Select Biometrics and Security: Find and select “Biometrics and security.”
- Choose Secure Folder: Tap on “Secure Folder.” You will be asked to sign in to your Samsung account if you haven’t done so already.
Step 2: Add Apps to Secure Folder
- Open Secure Folder: Once it is set up, open the Secure Folder.
- Tap on ‘Add Apps’: Select “Add apps” to choose from the apps on your device.
- Select the Apps to Add: Tap on the apps you want to move to the Secure Folder and press “Add.”
Now, the selected apps will be stored in a secure environment, accessible only by your authentication method (e.g., password, fingerprint, or pattern).
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
If you require more advanced features for hiding apps, several third-party applications can effectively accomplish this task. Popular options include Apex Launcher and Nova Launcher. Here’s a popular method using Apex Launcher:
Step 1: Install Apex Launcher
- Go to Google Play Store: Open Play Store.
- Search for Apex Launcher: Type “Apex Launcher” in the search bar and install it.
Step 2: Configure Apex Launcher
- Set Apex Launcher as Default: Once installed, set it as your default launcher by going to Settings > Apps > Default apps and selecting Apex Launcher.
- Access Apex Settings: Long press on the home screen and select “Apex settings.”
- Tap ‘Drawer Settings’: Find and tap on “Drawer Settings.”
- Select ‘Hide Apps’: Choose the “Hide apps” option and select the apps you want to hide.
- Apply Changes: Confirm your selections, and the apps will be hidden from the app drawer.
This launcher not only allows you to hide apps but also provides many customization options, enhancing your device’s usability.
Tips for Hiding Apps on Samsung S20 Ultra
While hiding apps is relatively straightforward, it is always good to be aware of a few tips that can enhance your experience:
Consider Your Security Needs
If you’re hiding apps due to privacy concerns, utilizing Secure Folder is a more secure option compared to simply hiding them through the home screen settings.
Regular Maintenance
Make it a habit to periodically review the apps you have hidden or stored in the Secure Folder. As your app usage changes, you may want to reveal or hide different apps based on your current needs.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra is an efficient way to maintain privacy and keep your device organized. With methods ranging from built-in settings to third-party applications, you can easily achieve a home screen that suits your style while safeguarding your sensitive information.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively control what apps are visible on your device, providing peace of mind as you navigate your digital life.
If you appreciate having a smartphone that reflects your personal preferences without compromising your privacy, hiding apps is a key feature that can help you achieve that goal. Whether utilizing the built-in options or exploring third-party launchers, the Samsung S20 Ultra offers great flexibility to customize your experience. Take control of your device today and enjoy a more organized, secure smartphone environment!
What are the ways to hide apps on a Samsung S20 Ultra?
To hide apps on a Samsung S20 Ultra, you can use the built-in feature available in the launcher settings. Simply, swipe up on your home screen to access the app drawer. Then tap on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner to open the menu, and select “Settings.” From there, look for the option labeled “Hide apps.” You can then select the apps you want to conceal. Once you confirm your choice, these apps will no longer appear in the app drawer.
Another method to hide apps is to create a secure folder, which essentially acts as a secluded space for your apps and files. To set this up, go to “Settings,” select “Biometrics and security,” and then tap on “Secure Folder.” Follow the setup instructions using your Samsung account. You can then add apps to this Secure Folder, making them invisible to anyone who doesn’t have access. This method adds an extra layer of security beyond just hiding the app icons.
Will hiding apps delete them from my device?
No, hiding apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra does not delete them from your device. When you hide an app, it simply removes the app icon from view in the app drawer. The app will still be installed and fully functional on your phone. You can still access the app through notifications or by un-hiding it when you wish to use it again.
If you want to ensure that the app stays on your device while keeping it out of sight, hiding is a preferable option. You can always re-add the app to your app drawer by going back into the app settings and un-hiding it whenever you need it. This allows for more flexibility and control over your apps without losing any data or functionality.
Can I hide system apps on my Samsung S20 Ultra?
Yes, you can hide some system apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra, but it may depend on the specific app. Many built-in apps can be hidden just like user-installed apps. You can follow the same process by heading to the app drawer, accessing the settings, and choosing “Hide apps.” However, certain essential system apps might be locked and cannot be hidden for security reasons.
If you’re unable to hide a particular system app, it may be worth exploring alternate options like disabling it. Disabling an app can effectively remove it from view and stop it from running in the background. To disable a system app, go to “Settings,” select “Apps,” find the app you want to disable, and tap “Disable.” Keep in mind that this option will remove your access to that app.
Is there a way to password-protect hidden apps on my Samsung S20 Ultra?
Yes, there is a way to password-protect hidden apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra by using the Secure Folder feature. When you move apps into the Secure Folder, they are not only hidden from the main interface but also require authentication (like a password, PIN, or biometrics) to access. This adds an extra layer of security and ensures that no one can easily access your hidden apps without your permission.
To set up a password for the Secure Folder, navigate to “Settings,” then “Biometrics and security,” and select “Secure Folder.” During the setup process, you will be prompted to choose an authentication method. Once configured, you can move any apps you wish to hide into the Secure Folder, providing you with both privacy and protection against unauthorized access.
Can I hide apps from the home screen as well as the app drawer?
Yes, you can hide apps from both the home screen and the app drawer on your Samsung S20 Ultra. When you hide an app using the app drawer settings, it gets hidden from view completely. This means the app will no longer appear in the app drawer, nor will its icon show up on your home screen.
If you want to remove an app from your home screen without hiding it entirely, you can simply long-press on the app icon and select “Remove from Home.” This action will only take the app off the home display, while it will still remain visible in the app drawer. Therefore, hiding it through the settings is the best way to ensure it is completely concealed.
How do I access hidden apps after hiding them?
To access hidden apps after you’ve concealed them on your Samsung S20 Ultra, you will need to go back into the app drawer and adjust the settings. Swipe up on your home screen to open the app drawer, tap on the three vertical dots in the corner to open the menu, and then go to “Settings.” In the “Hide apps” section, you can view the apps you have hidden. From here, you can un-check the apps you want to reveal again.
If the apps were placed in the Secure Folder, you will need to go to the Secure Folder itself. Open the Secure Folder app, authenticate your identity through the set password or biometric option, and you will see all the apps stored within it. This method ensures that you can regain access to your apps whenever you need them while maintaining privacy when required.
What to do if I forget the password for hidden apps?
If you forget the password for your hidden apps in the Secure Folder on your Samsung S20 Ultra, there are recovery options available. During the setup of the Secure Folder, you would have been prompted to associate it with your Samsung account. If you have forgotten your password, you can choose the option to recover your password through your Samsung account. You may need to verify your identity through a secondary method such as your registered email or phone number.
In case you’re unable to recover your password through your Samsung account, you might consider resetting your Secure Folder. However, take note that this action will delete all data contained within the Secure Folder, including any hidden apps or files. Therefore, it’s advisable to use the recovery options first before resorting to more drastic measures that could result in data loss.
Are there third-party apps that can help hide apps on Samsung S20 Ultra?
Yes, there are various third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that can help with hiding apps on your Samsung S20 Ultra. Applications such as “Nova Launcher,” “App Hider,” and “Hide App” offer additional features for managing visibility of apps and providing an extra layer of privacy. These apps can provide customizable options and some may allow for more robust hiding techniques than the built-in options.
However, it’s essential to exercise caution when using third-party apps. Make sure to read reviews and check the credibility of the application before downloading. Some apps might require permissions that could compromise your privacy, so it’s crucial to ensure you are using trusted software to protect your personal information and devices effectively.