How to Lock the Hidden Album in iOS 16 Photos

In iOS 16, Apple introduced native privacy enhancements to the Photos app that automatically lock both the Hidden and Recently Deleted albums. Previously accessible to anyone with an unlocked iPhone, these sensitive folders now require biometric authentication or a device passcode to view, ensuring private photos and videos remain protected even when someone else is handling your device.

By default, iOS 16 secures the Hidden album using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode. Whenever someone taps on the Hidden album under the Utilities section in the Photos app, a lock icon appears, and iOS immediately initiates a biometric scan. If the Face ID or Touch ID scan fails or is canceled, access is denied until the correct device passcode is entered.

To ensure this protection is active, you can check your device settings:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Photos.
3. Locate the toggle labeled Use Face ID (or Use Touch ID) and ensure it is turned on.

When this toggle is enabled, the same security standard automatically applies to the Recently Deleted album as well, preventing unauthorized recovery or permanent deletion of discarded items.

For an extra layer of privacy, iOS 16 also allows you to make the Hidden album invisible within the Photos app entirely. In Settings > Photos, toggle off Show Hidden Album. This removes the folder from the Utilities list completely without deleting any contained media. The album can be made visible again at any time by switching the toggle back on, where it will still require biometric authentication to open.