Modern smartphone series Realme offer users a wide range of tools for personalizing the interface and protecting personal data. One of the most requested features is the ability to hide icons of installed apps from the main screen, leaving them accessible only through a special input or password. This is especially true for devices that are used by several people, or when it is necessary to protect private information from prying eyes.
In the shell Realme UI, based on the Android platform, this process is implemented quite flexibly, but may differ depending on the software version. Users are often faced with the need to remove icons of banking clients, instant messengers, or galleries from a prominent place, without deleting the applications themselves. In this article we will analyze in detail all available methods, from built-in system settings to the use of third-party launchers.
It is worth noting that the security system algorithms are constantly updated. The menu interface may change slightly after major firmware updates. If you do not find an item in the settings, check the relevance of the software version in the section Settings → About phone, since the location of functions can be optimized by developers.
Using the built-in "Hidden Space" function
The most reliable and secure The way is to use Realme's native feature called Hidden Space. This tool allows you to move selected applications to a protected area that cannot be reached by simply swiping across the desktop. Access requires a special gesture or code, which guarantees a high level of confidentiality.
To activate this option, you need to go to the system settings and find the appropriate section. Usually it is in the category responsible for data security or privacy. The setup process is intuitive: the system will prompt you to come up with a unique access code or set up biometric authentication to enter a hidden section.
After activating the function, you will be asked to select specific apps that you want to hide. It is important to understand that after moving their icons will completely disappear from the main screen and from the menu of all applications. They will be available only inside a special container that opens upon your signal.
- 🔒 High level of data protection thanks to a separate password or fingerprint.
- 📱 Ability to hide not only icons, but also notifications from selected apps.
- ⚙️ Flexible configuration of the login method: PIN code, pattern key or biometrics.
- 🚀 Minimal impact on device performance, since the function is systemic.
⚠️ Attention: If you forget the password for Hidden Space and have not linked your Realme account for recovery, access to hidden applications and the data inside them may be lost without the possibility of return.
☑️ Activating hidden space
Blocking applications as an alternative to hiding
Users often confuse the concepts of “hide” and “block,” although in the ecosystem Realme these functions are closely intertwined. The “App Lock” feature does not completely remove the icon from the screen, but makes it useless for an outsider without entering a password. However, in some versions of the firmware, activating the lock automatically offers the option to hide the icon from the general list.
This method is convenient because you always see what apps are installed, but you cannot accidentally open them or allow someone else to do it. When you try to launch a blocked application, the system will immediately request authentication. This creates an additional security barrier without the need to hide the software in deep menus.
To configure, go to section Settings → Passwords and security → Application lock. Here you will see a list of all installed software with switches next to each item. Activate protection for the desired apps and check the display settings in the menu.
| Function | Icon visibility | Password required | Notifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidden space | Completely hidden | Yes (to enter the space) | Hidden by default |
| App locking | Visible on the screen | Yes (at every start) | Content is hidden |
| Guest mode | Depends on settings | Yes (to exit mode) | Do not come |
Using a lock is often preferable for frequently used applications that are inconvenient to search for in the hidden menu every time. You simply click on the icon, enter your fingerprint and continue working. This saves time while maintaining a level of protection.
For maximum security, combine methods: use Application Lock for messengers, and Hidden Space for file managers and galleries.
Setting a gesture to enter hidden mode
One of the most interesting features of the shell Realme UI is the ability to enter a hidden space using a special gesture on the desktop. This allows you to instantly open access to hidden apps without entering long passwords manually if you have biometrics enabled.
The gesture is customizable and consists of moving two fingers across the screen. The default is often to spread the fingers apart (pinch outward) or bring them together. You can test different options and choose the one that seems most convenient and natural to you in everyday use.
To customize the gesture, open the hidden space settings and find the “Access through gesture” item. The system will show an animation of the required movement. Once confirmed, you can perform this gesture on any free space on the home screen to instantly display a list of hidden applications.
⚠️ Attention: The gesture only works on the home screen. Make sure that you make the movement in a space free of widgets and icons, otherwise the system may recognize this as an attempt to resize the widget.
If the gesture stops working after a system update, check the screen sensitivity settings or try reassigning the action. Sometimes resetting the launcher settings helps to restore the correct operation of touch commands.
Hiding through third-party launchers
If the built-in capabilities of the system for some reason do not suit you or the interface has changed for the worse, there is always the opportunity to install a third-party launcher. App stores offer many solutions, such as Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher or Smart Launcherthat have their own powerful tools for controlling the visibility of icons.
Third-party skins often provide more granular control over the desktop grid, animations, and grouping of applications. The hiding function in them is usually implemented through the creation of separate profiles or folders, access to which is password protected. This gives greater flexibility in organizing space.
However, it is worth considering that installing a third-party launcher may affect the operation of some Realme system gestures, for example, calling a voice assistant or quick settings by swiping from above. Before completely replacing the interface, it is recommended to test the new launcher for a couple of days.
The installation process is standard: download the application from Google Play, click the "Home" button and select the new default launcher. After that, go to its settings, find the “Hidden applications” or “App Drawer” section and activate the necessary options.
Why might widgets disappear?
When you change the launcher, standard Realme widgets (weather, clock, tools) may stop displaying or work incorrectly, since they are tied to the native shell. You will have to look for analogues in the Play Market store.
Features of working in the “Simple Mode”
Realme smartphones have a special “Simple Mode”, intended for older people or those who prefer the most concise interface with large icons. In this mode, the list of available applications is strictly limited and regulated by the system.
When you enable Simple mode, many standard applications can be automatically hidden so as not to clutter the screen. This is not a security feature in the full sense of the word, but can serve as a way to remove unnecessary icons from inexperienced users who may accidentally change important settings.
Exiting this mode is usually a long press on the power button or a special key combination described in the instructions for a specific model. If you accidentally turned on this mode and cannot find the apps you need, check your screen settings.
- 👵 Increased font and icon sizes for better viewing.
- 🚫 Limited set of pre-installed applications on the home screen.
- 🔒 Protection against accidental changes to system settings by children or the elderly.
- 🔄 Ability to quickly switch between normal and simple mode.
Restoring access to hidden applications
Situations when it is necessary to return hidden applications to a prominent place arise quite often. For example, when selling a phone, transferring it to another family member, or simply wanting to simplify access to frequently used services. The reverse hiding process is as simple as the hiding process itself.
You will need to re-enter the Hidden Space or App Lock menu using your password or biometrics. Inside the interface, just uncheck the selected apps or click the “Remove from hidden space” button. The icons will instantly return to the general application menu.
If you used a third-party launcher, go to its settings and find the list of hidden elements. There is usually a “Show All” button or the ability to edit the visibility list. Don’t forget to reboot your device after this so that the changes are applied correctly in all sections of the system.
⚠️ Attention: When you reset your smartphone to factory settings (Hard Reset), all hidden spaces and lock passwords will be deleted. Data inside hidden applications may be lost if a backup has not been made.
The main security rule: Regularly change passwords to access the hidden space and do not use simple combinations like 1234 or 0000, which are easy to guess.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to hide system applications such as “Phone” or “Messages”?
Hide critical system applications through the standard “Hidden Space” is usually not possible, as this may disrupt the operation of the device. However, some third-party launchers allow you to disable the display of even system icons, but this must be done with caution.
What happens if I delete an application located in the hidden space?
The application will be completely deleted from the phone’s memory, like any other. It will disappear both from the hidden space and from the system. Before deleting, make sure you have saved all important data from this app.
Do hidden apps see my notifications on the lock screen?
By default, Realme privacy settings hide notification content from apps that are in hidden space or under lock. On the lock screen, you will only see the name of the application or the notification will be completely hidden.
Is it possible to set a separate password for each hidden application?
The Hidden Space feature uses one common password to enter the entire container. If you need individual protection for each app, use the App Lock feature, where you can set up a common password for all selected apps.
Is hiding applications reset when updating Android?
Typically, hidden space and lock settings are preserved when updating the operating system over the air (OTA). However, after major updates (for example, from Android 12 to 13), it is recommended to double-check the settings, since the structure of the security menu may change.