Phonewell
Keep private apps in a hidden, locked space
Secure Folder / Private space, step by step on Samsung, Pixel and Xiaomi phones.
Why it helps
A separate space with its own lock holds the apps and files you don't want others to see, even if they borrow your unlocked phone.
What you'll notice
Your private apps live in their own locked space, which you can hide from your app list.
How to set it up
Pick your phone.
Samsung Galaxy
- Settings
- Security and privacy
- More security settings
- Secure Folder
- Tap "More security settings", then "Secure Folder".
- Sign in with your Samsung account and choose a lock.
- Open Secure Folder and tap + to add apps.
- To hide it, switch off its icon in the Secure Folder settings.
Based on reports from owners and the tech press. We have not yet checked it on a phone ourselves.
Google Pixel
- Settings
- Security & privacy
- Private space
- Tap "Private space" and follow the setup.
- Choose a separate lock (recommended).
- Install the apps you want with the Play Store inside the space.
- If you hide it when locked, find it again by searching "private space" in your app list.
Based on reports from owners and the tech press. We have not yet checked it on a phone ourselves.
Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO
- Settings
- Additional settings
- Second space
- Tap "Additional settings", then "Second space".
- Turn it on and give it a different PIN or fingerprint.
- Switch between spaces by unlocking with the other PIN or finger.
Based on reports from owners and the tech press. We have not yet checked it on a phone ourselves.
How to undo it
Delete the space or folder in the same screen. Its apps and files are deleted with it.
Labels can differ. Menu names and their order vary between models and can change with a system update. If a step doesn't match your phone, search Settings for the feature name or one of its other names: Secure Folder, Private space, Second space, Hidden folder, Hide apps.