While Google Files (Files by Google) does not hide application icons from your device's app drawer or home screen, it provides a robust "Safe folder" feature to secure your private files (such as photos, videos, and documents) within the app. This creates a hidden, locked section for your sensitive data, making it inaccessible to others without your PIN or pattern.
Understanding Google Files' Safe Folder
The Safe folder is a secure, encrypted space within the Google Files app where you can store sensitive personal files. Once files are moved into this folder, they are no longer visible in your device's galleries, other file managers, or cloud backups, offering an extra layer of privacy. This feature is akin to the "private" section with a lock described in the provided reference, designed to keep your private content secure.
Accessing and Utilizing the Safe Folder
To utilize the Safe folder in Google Files and secure your private data, follow these steps:
1. Setting Up the Safe Folder
First, you need to set up the Safe folder if you haven't already:
- Open Google Files: Launch the Files by Google app on your Android device.
- Navigate to Browse: Tap on the "Browse" tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Locate Safe Folder: Scroll down the list of categories until you find "Safe folder" with a lock icon. This is the secure, private section for your files, much like how the reference describes finding a "private" section with a "lock" by scrolling down.
- Create PIN/Pattern: The first time you open it, you will be prompted to set up a 4-digit PIN or a pattern. Choose one that you can remember but is difficult for others to guess.
- Confirm: Re-enter your PIN or pattern to confirm it. Make sure to remember it, as there's no recovery option if you forget.
2. Moving Files into the Safe Folder
Once your Safe folder is set up, you can start moving files into it:
- Browse for Files: Go to the "Browse" tab in Google Files and navigate to the category (e.g., Images, Videos, Documents) where the files you want to hide are located.
- Select Files: Long-press on the file(s) you wish to hide to select them. You can select multiple files.
- Move to Safe Folder: Tap the three-dot menu icon (More options) in the top-right corner.
- Choose "Move to Safe folder": Select this option from the menu.
- Enter PIN/Pattern: You will be asked to enter your Safe folder PIN or pattern to confirm the move.
The selected files will now disappear from their original locations and will only be accessible from within the Safe folder.
3. Accessing Your Hidden Files
To view files stored in your Safe folder:
- Open Google Files: Launch the app.
- Go to Browse: Tap the "Browse" tab.
- Open Safe Folder: Scroll down and tap on "Safe folder."
- Enter PIN/Pattern: Provide your PIN or pattern to unlock the folder.
You can now view, share, or move files out of the Safe folder. To move a file out, select it, tap the three-dot menu, and choose "Move out of Safe folder."
Benefits of Using the Safe Folder
- Enhanced Privacy: Keeps your sensitive photos, videos, and documents private from anyone who might access your phone.
- Security: Files are protected by a PIN or pattern, providing a robust layer of security.
- Simple Management: Easy to move files in and out of the secure space directly within the Google Files app.
Important Considerations
It's crucial to understand that Google Files' Safe folder is designed for securing files. It does not hide application icons from your device's app drawer or home screen. If you're looking to hide app icons, you would need to explore other methods such as:
- Disabling Apps: Some built-in apps can be disabled in your device settings.
- Using Device Features: Certain Android devices or launchers (e.g., Nova Launcher, Lawnchair) offer features to hide app icons.
- Using Guest Mode/Multiple Users: Create a separate user profile or enable guest mode for others to use your device without accessing your apps and data.
In essence, while the term "hide apps" might commonly refer to making app icons disappear, Google Files specializes in making files private and secure, offering a direct solution for data privacy through its Safe folder.
