Many people want to hide apps for privacy reasons. Google Pixel phones now offer an official way to do this. The Private Space feature in Android 15 helps users keep apps and data hidden. Those using older Pixel phones can use third-party launchers.
Hide Apps on Google Pixel Phones using Private Space
Android 15 introduced Private Space, a secure area for hidden apps. It works separately from the main phone system. Apps in this space do not appear in search results. They also do not sync with the main Google account.
Steps to Enable Private Space:
- Open Settings on your Pixel phone.
- Go to Security & Privacy and tap Private Space.
- Enter your PIN to continue.
- Tap Set up and follow the instructions.
- You can create a new Google account for Private Space.
- Choose Use screen lock or Set a new lock.
- Tap Done to finish the setup.
Now, your Private Space is ready to use and hide apps.
Accessing Private Space:
- Open the app drawer by swiping it up.
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Private.
- Enter your PIN to unlock the space.
- Download and install apps from the Google Play Store.
Apps inside Private Space do not appear in the main app list. This keeps them hidden from others who use your phone.
Use Third-Party Launchers to Hide Apps on Google Pixel Phones
You can use a third-party launcher if you don’t have Android 15. Launchers help customize the app drawer and home screen. They also allow users to hide apps. Nova Launcher Prime is a popular choice for this.
Steps to Hide Apps with Nova Launcher:
- Download Nova Launcher and Nova Launcher Prime.
- Open Nova Launcher and set it to the default.
- Go to Nova Settings and tap App Drawer.
- Select Hide apps and choose the apps to hide.
This method hides apps from the app drawer but not from search results. However, it is useful if you want to keep apps out of sight.
Disable Apps to Hide System Apps on Google Pixel Phones
Some apps cannot be removed but can be disabled. Disabling an app hides it from the app drawer. However, disabled apps stop working completely.
Steps to Disable Apps:
- Open Settings and go to Apps.
- Tap See all apps to view the full list.
- Select the app you want to disable.
- Tap Disable and confirm the action.
To enable a disabled app, repeat the steps and tap Enable. Be careful, as some system apps are important for phone functions.
The Final Words
Google offers multiple ways to hide apps on Google Pixel phones. The best method is using Private Space in Android 15. It keeps apps secure and hidden from the main phone system. If your phone does not support Android 15, use Nova Launcher Prime. You can also disable system apps to remove them from view. Choose the best option for your privacy needs.
