how to hide apps android
In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an essential part of our lives. We rely on them for communication, entertainment, and even productivity. With the ever-increasing number of apps available on the Google Play Store, our smartphones are flooded with numerous apps that cater to our different needs and preferences. However, not all apps are used frequently, and some may even contain sensitive information that we want to keep private. In such cases, the need to hide apps on our Android devices arises. In this article, we will discuss various methods on how to hide apps on Android , ensuring the privacy and security of our personal information.
Why Do You Need to Hide Apps on Android?
Before we dive into the methods of hiding apps on Android, let us first understand why it is essential. Privacy is a major concern for most individuals, and with the increasing number of apps on our phones, the risk of our personal information being exposed also increases. Furthermore, some apps may contain sensitive information, such as banking or social media apps, which we want to keep hidden from prying eyes. Another reason to hide apps on Android is to declutter the home screen. Too many apps can make it difficult to find the ones we use frequently, leading to frustration and wasting time. Hiding apps can help organize the home screen and make it more user-friendly.
Methods to Hide Apps on Android
1. Use the Built-in App Hider
Many Android devices come with a built-in app hider feature that allows users to hide apps without the need for third-party apps. This feature can be found in the settings menu, under the ‘Apps’ or ‘Application Manager’ option. From there, select the app you want to hide, and click on the ‘Disable’ or ‘Turn off’ option. This will remove the app from the app drawer and the home screen, making it invisible to others. However, keep in mind that this method only works for pre-installed apps on your device and not for downloaded apps.
2. Use Third-Party Apps
If your device does not have a built-in app hider feature, you can opt for third-party apps. These apps are specifically designed to help users hide apps on their Android devices. Some popular options include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, and App Hider, among others. These apps offer a range of features, such as the ability to hide apps, create a secure folder for apps, and even lock apps with a password or fingerprint.
3. Create a Folder and Hide Apps
Another simple method to hide apps on your Android device is to create a folder and move the apps you want to hide into it. To do this, long-press on an app and drag it on top of another app to create a folder. You can then rename the folder to something discreet and move the apps you want to hide into it. This method does not completely hide the apps, but it makes them less visible to others.
4. Use the Guest Mode Feature
Many Android devices come with a guest mode feature, which allows users to create separate profiles for different users. In this mode, you can hide apps by disabling them, similar to the built-in app hider feature. However, the difference is that this method hides the apps for all users, not just the guest mode. This is a great option for those who share their phone with others and want to hide certain apps from being seen.
5. Disable Notifications for Specific Apps
If you don’t want to completely hide an app , but want to keep notifications from appearing, you can disable notifications for specific apps. To do this, go to the app’s settings, and click on the ‘Notifications’ option. From there, toggle off the option to ‘Show notifications’ to prevent notifications from appearing on your device. This method is useful for apps that have sensitive information, but you still want to access them easily.
6. Use the Inbuilt Security Feature
Some Android devices come with an inbuilt security feature that allows users to lock apps with a password or fingerprint. This feature is usually found under the security or privacy settings of your device. You can select the apps you want to lock and set a password or use your fingerprint to unlock them. This method not only hides the apps but also adds an extra layer of security to them.
7. Utilize the Incognito Mode
Many apps, such as Google Chrome, have an incognito mode feature that allows users to browse or use the app without leaving any trace of their activity. This is a useful feature for those who want to keep their browsing history or app usage hidden. Simply open the app, and click on the three vertical dots to access the settings. From there, select the ‘New incognito tab’ option to use the app in incognito mode.
8. Hide Apps Using a Launcher
Launchers are another popular option for hiding apps on Android devices. They offer a range of customization options, including the ability to hide apps. These launchers allow users to create hidden folders, lock apps with a password, and even change the app icons to make them less visible. Some popular launchers that offer these features include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, and Microsoft Launcher.
9. Create a Secure Folder for Apps
If you have a Samsung device, you can utilize the Secure Folder feature to hide apps. This feature allows users to create a secure folder on their device, which can only be accessed with a password or fingerprint. You can move apps into this folder to keep them hidden from others. This is a great option for those who want to keep their personal and work apps separate.
10. Use the Multiple User Feature
Similar to the guest mode, some Android devices also offer a multiple user feature, which allows users to create separate profiles for different users. This is a great option for those who share their device with family members, as each user can have their own set of apps and settings. You can hide apps from other users by disabling them in your profile, making them invisible to others.
Conclusion
Hiding apps on your Android device is a great way to maintain your privacy and keep your personal information secure. Whether you want to hide sensitive apps, declutter your home screen, or keep your browsing history hidden, there are various methods to achieve this. Some methods may require third-party apps, while others can be done using the device’s built-in features. It is essential to choose a method that works best for your needs and preferences. With the methods mentioned in this article, you can easily hide apps on your Android device without compromising on your privacy and security.
messages without facebook messenger
In today’s digital age, communication has become easier and more convenient than ever before. With the rise of social media platforms, messaging apps, and various other forms of instant communication, staying connected with friends and family has never been easier. One of the most popular messaging apps is Facebook Messenger, which boasts over 1.3 billion active users worldwide. However, not everyone is a fan of this app, and many people are looking for alternatives to communicate without using Facebook Messenger. In this article, we will explore the various ways to send messages without Facebook Messenger.
1. Text Messaging
The most basic and traditional way to send messages without Facebook Messenger is through text messaging. Almost every mobile phone has the ability to send and receive text messages, making it a widely accessible form of communication. Text messaging is also a great option for those who do not have access to a smartphone or do not want to download any additional apps. While it may not have all the features of Facebook Messenger, such as video calling or group chats, text messaging is still a reliable and simple way to stay in touch with your contacts.
2. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is another popular messaging app that can be used as an alternative to Facebook Messenger. It has over 2 billion users globally and offers features such as group chats, voice and video calling, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. The app is free to download and use, and all you need is an internet connection. WhatsApp also has end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your messages and calls are secure. It is available for both Android and iOS devices, making it a great choice for cross-platform communication.
3. iMessage
For iOS users, iMessage is an excellent option for messaging without Facebook Messenger. The app comes pre-installed on all Apple devices and allows users to send text messages, photos, videos, and documents to other Apple users for free. iMessage also has features such as group chats, voice and video calling, and the ability to share your location. One of the best things about iMessage is that it works seamlessly across all Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs, making it a convenient choice for those in the Apple ecosystem.
4. Signal
If privacy is your top concern when it comes to messaging, then Signal is the perfect alternative to Facebook Messenger. Developed by the non-profit organization, Signal Foundation, this app offers end-to-end encryption for all messages, voice, and video calls. It also has the option to set disappearing messages, ensuring that your conversations are not stored on the app for an extended period. Signal also has features such as group chats, voice memos, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices and is free to use.
5. Telegram
With over 500 million active users, Telegram is another popular messaging app that can be used as an alternative to Facebook Messenger. It offers features such as group chats, voice and video calls, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. Telegram also has end-to-end encryption for all messages, ensuring that your conversations are private and secure. One of the unique features of this app is the ability to create channels for broadcasting messages to a large audience, making it a popular choice for businesses and organizations.
6. Skype
Skype has been around for a long time and is one of the pioneers of video calling. It is available for both desktop and mobile devices and offers features such as one-on-one and group video calls, voice calls, and instant messaging. While it may not have all the features of Facebook Messenger, such as stickers or filters, Skype is still a reliable option for staying in touch with your contacts. It also has a feature called Skype Out, which allows users to make low-cost calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide.
7. Viber
Viber is a messaging app that offers similar features to Facebook Messenger, such as group chats, voice and video calls, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. It also has end-to-end encryption for all messages, ensuring that your conversations are private and secure. One unique feature of Viber is the ability to make international calls to non-Viber users at low rates, making it a great option for those who need to communicate with people from different countries.
8. Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is a messaging and video conferencing app developed by Google. It can be accessed through Gmail or downloaded as an app on your mobile device. It offers features such as group chats, voice and video calls, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. One of the best things about Google Hangouts is that it integrates seamlessly with other Google products, such as Google Calendar and Google Docs, making it a great option for those who use these tools for work or personal use.
9. Discord
While Discord is primarily known as a gaming app, it can also be used as a messaging app without Facebook Messenger. It offers features such as group chats, voice and video calls, and the ability to send photos, videos, and documents. Discord also has a unique feature called servers, which are like chat rooms where you can join and communicate with people who share similar interests. It is available for both desktop and mobile devices and is free to use.
10. Email
Last but not least, email is another great option for messaging without Facebook Messenger. While it may not have all the features of a messaging app, such as instant messaging or video calls, email is still a reliable and widely used form of communication. It is also a great option for sending longer messages or important documents that may not be suitable for messaging apps. Plus, almost everyone has an email address, making it an accessible option for staying in touch with your contacts.
In conclusion, while Facebook Messenger may be a popular choice for messaging, there are plenty of alternatives available for those who do not wish to use it. From traditional text messaging to secure messaging apps with end-to-end encryption, there is an option for everyone. With the advancements in technology, staying connected has never been easier, and it’s up to you to choose the method of communication that works best for you.