Apple released the second public beta for iOS 18 on July 29, following its announcement at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June. This update introduces various new features for developers and beta testers, such as scheduled messages and a customizable lock screen. Two standout additions are the ability to lock and hide apps, enhancing your iPhone’s security.
These features are particularly valuable for parents. A recent CBS report highlighted a case where a 5-year-old used her mother’s phone to buy over $3,000 worth of items on Amazon. While the mother could return the items, it was a stressful experience. With iOS 18’s app-locking and hiding capabilities, you can safeguard against such mishaps.
It’s advisable to install the beta on a secondary device due to potential bugs and battery issues. I installed it on my old iPhone XR to keep my iPhone 14 Pro problem-free.
Here’s how to lock and hide your iPhone apps using iOS 18.
How to Lock Apps on iOS 18:
- Long press an app.
- Tap Require Face ID.
- Tap Require Face ID again.
This will ensure the app can only be accessed with Face ID or a passcode. Note that some apps, like Camera, Find My, and Settings, cannot be locked, but most other apps can be.
How to Hide Apps on iOS 18:
Hiding apps is similar to locking them but is limited to third-party apps like Instagram and Twitter.
- Long press an app.
- Tap Require Face ID.
- Tap Hide and Require Face ID.
After confirming with Face ID or a passcode, the app’s icon and name will be removed from your home screen and placed in a Hidden folder in your App Library. Notifications for hidden apps will be disabled.
To access hidden apps, swipe right to your App Library and scroll to the bottom. Tap the Hidden folder and enter your Face ID or passcode to view the apps.
How to Unhide and Remove Locks from Apps:
To unhide or unlock an app, long press on the app, tap Don’t Require Face ID, and enter your Face ID or passcode. Unhidden apps will not automatically return to the home screen; to add them back, go to your App Library, long press on the app, and tap Add to Home Screen.