There are a few ways to keep apps out of sight. The simplest is to long‑press an icon, tap the minus sign and choose Remove from Home Screen. The app moves to the App Library, where it stays but still appears in search.

With iOS 18 you can add a second layer of privacy. Long‑press, select Require Face ID, and the app will lock each time you open it. Choosing Hide and Require Face ID removes the icon from the Home screen and places the app in the Hidden folder at the bottom of the App Library. No notifications arrive while it’s hidden, and it doesn’t show up in Spotlight or CarPlay.

Hidden apps aren’t totally invisible. Anyone with your passcode can view the Hidden folder or check Settings > Apps > Hidden apps. They also appear in Battery usage, Screen Time activity, and the App Store purchase history. To hide purchases, open the App Store, tap your profile, and choose Hide on the purchase list.

Beyond hiding, you can set app limits, downtime, disable built‑in features, tweak notifications, stop Siri suggestions, and remove apps from search in Settings. For extra protection, enable Stolen Device Protection on your iPhone.