I’ve been writing blogs in the information sector for over 6 years. During this time, I’ve helped thousands of users solve everyday tech problems in simple words without confusion or technical jargon.
One common issue people face is this:
“My app is missing. I can’t find it anywhere.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place.
In this complete guide, I’ll explain how to unhide an app on Android phones, Samsung devices, iPhones, and even third-party launchers. I’ll also share real reasons why apps get hidden, mistakes users make, and extra tips that most articles don’t cover.
Let’s start.
What Does Unhide an App Mean?
When an app is hidden, it still exists on your phone but does not appear on:
- Home screen
- App drawer
- Search results (sometimes)
Hidden apps are not deleted, and your data stays safe.
People hide apps for:
- Privacy
- Child safety
- Clean home screen
- Accidentally changing settings
Knowing how to unhide an app helps you get it back instantly.
Common Reasons Apps Get Hidden (Important)
Before jumping to steps, understand why apps disappear:
- Home screen settings changed
- App drawer filters enabled
- Samsung or iPhone hide options used
- Third-party launcher hiding apps
- Parental control or screen time
- Work profile enabled
- App disabled (not uninstalled)
Many users think the app is deleted, but in reality, it’s just hidden.
How to Unhide an App on Android
Most Android phones follow similar steps.
Method 1: Using App Drawer Settings
- Open App Drawer
- Tap three dots (⋮) in the corner
- Select Home Screen Settings or Settings
- Tap Hide Apps
- You’ll see hidden apps
- Unselect the app
- Tap Done or Apply
The app will reappear instantly
Method 2: Unhide App from Settings
- Go to Settings
- Tap Apps or Apps & Notifications
- Find the missing app
- If status shows Disabled, tap Enable
- Go back to home screen
Many users forget this step disabled apps look hidden.
How to Unhide an App on Samsung Phones
Samsung phones have a built in hide option.
Steps to Unhide App on Samsung
- Long-press on Home Screen
- Tap Settings
- Select Hide Apps
- Choose the hidden app
- Tap Done
That’s it.
Samsung Tip (New Phones)
Also check:
Settings → Apps → App List Filter
How to Unhide an App on iPhone (iOS)
Apple handles hiding apps differently.
Method 1: Using App Library
- Swipe left to open App Library
- Use Search Bar
- Find the hidden app
- Long-press the app
- Tap Add to Home Screen
Method 2: Unhide Apps Using Screen Time
If apps were hidden using restrictions:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Screen Time
- Select Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap Allowed Apps
- Turn ON the hidden app
Method 3: Reset Home Screen Layout
If apps are missing from home screen:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset
- Choose Reset Home Screen Layout
This won’t delete data only layout.
How to Unhide Apps in Third-Party Launchers
Many users install launchers like:
- Nova Launcher
- Apex Launcher
- Poco Launcher
Nova Launcher (Most Popular)
- Long-press Home Screen
- Tap Settings
- Select App Drawer
- Tap Hide Apps
- Uncheck the hidden app
Launchers often hide apps silently, so always check this.
How to Find Hidden Apps Using Search
If you’re unsure where the app is hidden:
- Open Google Search Widget
- Type app name
- If app opens → it’s hidden, not deleted
- Add it back to home screen
This is a pro trick many guides ignore.
Extra Tip: Check Work Profile
Sometimes apps move to a Work Profile:
- Open Settings
- Tap Passwords & Accounts
- Check Work Profile
- Disable it temporarily
Many banking and office apps hide here.
What NOT to Do (Common Mistakes)
Factory reset without checking hide settings
Installing duplicate apps
Using random cleaner apps
Assuming the app is deleted
These mistakes cause data loss.
Benefits of Knowing How to Unhide an App
- Saves time
- Protects app data
- Avoids reinstalling apps
- Improves phone control
- Better privacy management
As someone with 6+ years of experience, I can say this is one of the most useful mobile skills.
Final Words from Khuram
If you’ve read this far, you now fully understand how to unhide an app on Android, Samsung, and iPhone.
I’ve written this guide using my real-world experience from 6+ years in the information sector, focusing on clarity, simplicity, and real user problems not copied steps.
If this helped you:
- Bookmark it
- Share it
- Use it whenever apps disappear again
Hidden apps are not lost you just need to know where to look.
FAQs
Q1: How do I unhide an app on Android?
Go to App Drawer → Settings → Hide Apps, then unselect the hidden app and tap Done.
Q2: Why is my app not showing but still installed?
The app is likely hidden or disabled, not deleted. Check app settings or launcher options.
Q3: How to unhide apps on Samsung phones?
Open Home Screen Settings → Hide Apps, select the hidden app, and remove it from the list.
Q4: Can hidden apps still work?
Yes. Hidden apps can still:
- Run in background
- Send notifications
- Store data
Q5: How to unhide apps on iPhone?
Use App Library search or disable restrictions in Screen Time settings.
Q6: Are hidden apps safe?
Yes, hiding apps does not harm your phone or data.
Q7: Can a launcher hide my apps automatically?
Yes. Third party launchers often have hide app features enabled by default.