Hiding the YouTube app on your Android device is a straightforward process that can help declutter your home screen, maintain privacy, or restrict access. While the exact steps can vary slightly depending on your Android version and phone manufacturer (OEM), most modern Android phones offer built-in features or allow the use of third-party solutions to achieve this.
Understanding Android's App Hiding Capabilities
Android devices offer various methods to hide applications, from simple app drawer customizations to secure, password-protected folders. The primary goal is to make the app icon invisible from your main home screen and app drawer, requiring specific steps to reveal or access it.
Common Methods to Hide the YouTube App
Here are the most common and effective ways to hide the YouTube app on your Android smartphone:
1. Using Your Phone's Built-in Settings (OEM-Specific)
Many Android skins, such as Samsung's One UI, Xiaomi's MIUI, or OnePlus's OxygenOS, include a dedicated "Hide apps" feature directly within the system settings. This is often the simplest and most integrated method.
Steps to Hide Apps via System Settings:
- Open your phone's Settings app. This app is typically represented by an icon, which often looks like a green gear.
- Within the Settings menu, navigate and tap on Home Screen (or a similar option like "Display" or "Launcher settings" depending on your device).
- Scroll down through the Home Screen settings. You will find an option labeled Hide apps (this option is generally located near the bottom of the page). Tap on it.
- A list of all your installed applications will appear. Scroll through the list and select YouTube.
- Once selected, the app will be moved to a hidden list. Confirm your selection (often by tapping "Done" or "Apply" at the top or bottom of the screen).
The YouTube app icon will now be hidden from your home screen and app drawer. To access it, you'll typically need to search for it in the app drawer search bar or unhide it through the same settings.
2. Utilizing a Secure Folder or Private Space
Some Android OEMs provide secure container features, like Samsung's Secure Folder or OnePlus's Hidden Space/App Locker, which allow you to store apps and files in an encrypted, password-protected environment, effectively hiding them from the main system.
General Steps for Secure Folders:
- Access your device's Secure Folder or Private Space feature (often found in Biometrics and Security settings).
- Set up or log in to your secure folder.
- Add the YouTube app to this secure space. Once added, the app's original icon will disappear from your main app drawer and home screen, and it will only be accessible within the secure folder.
3. Disabling the App (Not Hiding, but Removing from View)
While not truly "hiding" in the sense of keeping it accessible but invisible, disabling an app removes its icon from your app drawer and prevents it from running. This is a good option if you rarely use YouTube and want it out of sight, but don't plan to access it frequently.
Steps to Disable YouTube:
- Go to your phone's Settings.
- Tap on Apps & Notifications (or "Apps," "Application Manager").
- Find and tap on YouTube in the list of installed apps.
- On the app info page, tap the Disable button. Confirm your action if prompted.
Note: If YouTube came pre-installed as a system app, you might only have the option to "Disable" it, not "Uninstall."
4. Employing Third-Party Launchers
Custom Android launchers like Nova Launcher, Lawnchair, or Action Launcher offer extensive customization options, including the ability to hide apps from the app drawer.
General Steps for Third-Party Launchers:
- Download and install a reputable third-party launcher from the Google Play Store.
- Set it as your default launcher.
- Access the launcher's Settings (usually by long-pressing on an empty space on the home screen or through the launcher's app icon).
- Look for options like "App Drawer," "Hide Apps," or "Manage Apps."
- Select YouTube from the list of apps to hide it.
Benefits of Hiding Apps
- Privacy: Keep certain apps away from prying eyes.
- Clutter Reduction: Maintain a cleaner and more organized home screen and app drawer.
- Parental Control: Limit children's access to specific applications (though dedicated parental control apps offer more robust features).
Method Comparison
Here's a quick comparison of the discussed methods:
Method | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Built-in System Settings | Integrated, simple, no extra apps needed | Varies by OEM, not available on all devices |
Secure Folder/Private Space | High security, password protected | Only available on certain devices (e.g., Samsung, OnePlus) |
Disabling the App | Completely removes from view and stops it | Not truly "hiding" for quick access, might require re-enabling |
Third-Party Launchers | Highly customizable, widely available | Requires installing a separate app, potential learning curve |
By choosing the method that best suits your device and needs, you can effectively hide the YouTube app on your Android phone.