How to Access Hidden Apps Folder in iOS 18

Apple’s iOS 18 introduces enhanced privacy controls that allow users to lock and hide individual applications from the Home Screen. Hidden applications are automatically moved to a secure "Hidden" folder located inside the App Library. Access to this folder is strictly protected by system biometrics—Face ID or Touch ID—or the device passcode, ensuring that only the authenticated device owner can view or open the concealed apps.

Where the Hidden Folder Is Located

When an app is hidden in iOS 18, it is completely removed from the Home Screen, search results, notifications, and standard App Library categories. Instead, it is routed to a locked folder titled Hidden, situated at the very bottom of the App Library.

How Access Is Granted

Gaining entry to the Hidden folder requires explicit authentication. Access is granted through the following process:

  1. Navigate to the App Library: Swipe left past all Home Screen pages until you reach the App Library.
  2. Locate the Hidden Folder: Scroll to the bottom of the App Library to find the folder labeled Hidden, which displays a blank icon with an eye-slash symbol.
  3. Trigger Authentication: Tap the folder.
  4. Authenticate: The system will immediately prompt for authentication using Face ID or Touch ID, depending on the iPhone model. If biometric verification fails or is unavailable, the user must enter the device passcode.

Once authentication succeeds, the folder expands to display the full grid of hidden applications, allowing them to be launched normally.

Security and Privacy Behavior

Access to the Hidden folder remains temporary:

  • Automatic Re-locking: As soon as you leave the App Library, lock your iPhone, or switch to another app, the Hidden folder automatically relocks. Returning to it requires fresh biometric or passcode verification.
  • Notifications and Siri: Apps placed within this folder do not display notifications, show preview banners, or appear in Siri suggestions.
  • No Separate Password: Access uses the device-level biometric credentials and passcode; iOS 18 does not require or allow a separate, unique password for the Hidden folder.