Have you ever felt the need to keep certain apps out of sight on your iPad, whether for privacy or just to declutter your home screen? Hiding apps on an iPad is simpler than you might think. By using a combination of built-in settings and a bit of creativity, you can make those apps disappear from plain view without deleting them. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Hide Apps on iPad
In this section, you’ll learn several methods to hide apps on your iPad. These steps will cover using restrictions, creating folders, and leveraging the App Library.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app on your iPad.
The Settings app is your gateway to customizing your iPad. Find the gray gear icon on your home screen and tap it to start.
Step 2: Navigate to Screen Time
Next, go to Screen Time by scrolling down and tapping it.
Screen Time is where you can manage various settings related to how you and others use your iPad. This tool is essential for hiding apps.
Step 3: Turn on Screen Time
Step 3: Turn on Screen Time if it isn’t already enabled.
Turning on Screen Time gives you access to restrictions and other features that will help you hide apps. If this is your first time, follow the setup prompts.
Step 4: Set a Passcode
Step 4: Set a Screen Time passcode for added security.
Setting a passcode ensures that only you can change the Screen Time settings. Make sure to remember the passcode you set!
Step 5: Select Content & Privacy Restrictions
Step 5: Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
This section allows you to manage what content and apps are accessible on your iPad. Toggle the switch to turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
Step 6: Hide Specific Apps
Step 6: Select Allowed Apps and toggle off the apps you want to hide.
By turning off specific apps, you effectively hide them from the home screen and the App Library. Don’t worry; you can always toggle them back on later.
Step 7: Use Folders to Hide Apps
Step 7: Create folders and move apps you want to hide into these folders.
Creating folders is a simple way to declutter your home screen. Drag and drop the apps into a folder, and they’ll be less noticeable.
Step 8: Utilize the App Library
Step 8: Move apps to the App Library.
From your home screen, long-press on the app you want to hide until it jiggles, then tap Remove App and choose Move to App Library. This way, the app is off your main screen but still accessible.
Once you complete these steps, the apps you selected will be hidden from view but still installed on your device. You can always reverse these steps to make the apps visible again.
Tips for How to Hide Apps on iPad
- Use folders to group and hide less frequently used apps.
- Regularly review Screen Time settings to manage hidden apps.
- Remember your Screen Time passcode to avoid being locked out of settings.
- Use the App Library to keep your home screen clean while still having access to all your apps.
- Consider using Guided Access for temporary hiding of apps during specific tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Hide Apps on iPad
How do I find hidden apps again?
You can find hidden apps by going back to the Screen Time settings and toggling them back on under Allowed Apps.
Can I hide third-party apps?
Yes, you can hide third-party apps using the Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time.
Is it possible to hide apps without using Screen Time?
Yes, you can use folders and the App Library to hide apps without needing Screen Time.
Will hiding apps affect their functionality?
No, hiding apps does not affect their functionality. They will continue running in the background and be accessible through search or the App Library.
Can someone disable the passcode I set for Screen Time?
No, only someone who knows the passcode can disable or change it, providing an extra layer of security.
Summary of Steps
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Screen Time.
- Turn on Screen Time.
- Set a Passcode.
- Select Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Hide Specific Apps.
- Use Folders.
- Utilize the App Library.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your iPad can be a game-changer for both privacy and organization. Whether you’re using Screen Time restrictions or just tucking apps away in folders, these methods offer you the flexibility to keep your device looking clean while keeping your apps accessible when you need them. Remember, the goal is to make your iPad work for you, not the other way around. So take control and tidy up that home screen today!
Feel free to explore additional settings and features to customize your experience even further. And if you ever need to find a hidden app, you know exactly where to look. Happy organizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.