How to Find Hidden Apps on Android
Just like other digital devices, Android phones have features that enable users to hide apps. You rarely stumble upon the hidden partitions unless you know the correct sequence of actions to gain access. Similarly, Android devices have built-in hiding software, such as the Secure Folder, that hides active apps on the device. Nonetheless, finding hidden apps on Android is hassle-free, and this guide takes you through everything.
Commonly Hidden Apps on Android?
The type of hidden apps on the Android device depends on both the user and the purpose. Below are common hidden apps that facilitate secret communications or browsing.
Vault
The vault apps have become so popular, especially among the youth, for their exceptional design and features that keep stuff private and secret in the smartphone. Vault apps can hide call logs, contacts, photos, private messages, and recordings. Besides, the app takes a snap of anyone who tries to invade privacy.
Hide it Pro
The Hide it Pro app fakes its icon to resemble an audio player similar to iTunes, but it’s actually a vault to hide all encrypted files.
But Are Vaults Same as Hidden Apps?
Vaults help keep selected files in your Android device private, and you need to enter a password or PIN to gain access. In most cases, users prefer vaults apps that fake cover pages or other icons to mislead device intruders. Note that while vaults are hidden apps, not all hidden apps are vaults. For instance, a partner may hide their regular messaging app on Android to conceal their communication. In this case, the messaging app is not a vault, but it falls under hidden apps.
Find Hidden Apps on Android
One of the simplest ways to access all the apps on an Android device is through the “Settings” app.
- Locate the “Settings App” resembling a gear on your Home Screen.
- Tap “Apps” for a list of all apps on the device, and be sure you are viewing “All” Apps for a complete list.
Chiefly, the apps in this list include those that help run the Android OS and those hidden from Home Screen.
Find Hidden Apps on Android Via App Drawer
The App Drawer displays a list of all the apps on your device.
- Access the drawer by tapping on the icon with two rows of three dots at the bottom of the screen.
This option prompts a list of all installed apps in alphabetic order. While you see most of the apps on the device through the drawer, there are chances of having hidden apps.
- Tap the three dots at the screen’s upper/bottom right, depending on the device.
- Click “Home Screen Settings” on the menu that pops up.
- Tap the “Hide Apps” menu.
Here, you will see all the hidden apps that don’t appear in the app list. If the screen displays no app, it means there are probably no apps hidden in the device.
Find Hidden Apps on Android Through Third-Party Apps
Third-part applications provide an alternative to discover hidden apps on Android. For instance, the parental control app helps parents find hidden apps in their children’s devices to keep them protected. Apps like mSpy and ES File Explorer enable parents to view media, browser history, conversations, and lots more.
After utilizing the ideas discussed here, it should be easy to uncover hidden apps on any Android device. Checking the hidden apps would help you remove unwanted or malicious apps to secure the phone and keep data secure.