How to hide WhatsApp on iOS?

How to hide WhatsApp on iOS - briefly?

To hide the WhatsApp app icon on your iOS device, you can use the built-in Screen Time feature. Simply go to Settings, select Screen Time, tap "Use Screen Time Passcode," and then choose "Content & Privacy Restrictions." From there, turn off the toggle for WhatsApp under the "Allowed Apps" section. This will remove the app icon from your home screen without deleting any data or messages within the app.

How to hide WhatsApp on iOS - in detail?

To hide WhatsApp on an iOS device, you can utilize several methods depending on your specific needs and the version of iOS installed on your device. Here are detailed steps for each method:

Method 1: Using Screen Time (iOS 12 and later)

Screen Time is a built-in feature in iOS that allows you to set limits on app usage, including hiding apps from view.

1. Open Settings: Tap on the Settings icon on your home screen.
2. Navigate to Screen Time: Scroll down and tap on "Screen Time."
3. Set Up Screen Time: If it's your first time using this feature, follow the prompts to set up Screen Time. Choose "This is My [Device]" or "This is My Child’s [Device]."
4. Enable Content & Privacy Restrictions: Go back to Settings and tap on "Screen Time," then select "Content & Privacy Restrictions."
5. Enter Passcode: If you haven't set a passcode yet, you will be prompted to create one.
6. Hide Apps: Under the "Content & Privacy Restrictions" menu, tap on "Allowed Apps," and then toggle off the switch next to WhatsApp. This will hide the app from view.

Method 2: Using Restrictions (iOS 11 and earlier)

If your device is running iOS 11 or earlier, you can use the Restrictions feature to hide apps.

1. Open Settings: Tap on the Settings icon on your home screen.
2. Navigate to General: Scroll down and tap on "General."
3. Restrictions: Tap on "Restrictions" at the bottom of the menu.
4. Enable Restrictions: If restrictions are not already enabled, you will need to enter a passcode.
5. Hide Apps: Scroll down and find the list of apps. Toggle off the switch next to WhatsApp to hide it from view.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps (iOS 14 and later)

Third-party launchers like "ColorWidgets" can help you customize your home screen, including hiding apps.

1. Install ColorWidgets: Download and install the ColorWidgets app from the App Store.
2. Open ColorWidgets: Launch the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the widget.
3. Hide WhatsApp: Use the app's interface to hide WhatsApp from your home screen. This method requires some familiarity with customizing iOS widgets.

Method 4: Using Shortcuts App (iOS 12 and later)

The Shortcuts app allows you to create a shortcut that will open the app without having an icon on your home screen.

1. Open Shortcuts: Tap on the Shortcuts app on your home screen. If it's not there, you can download it from the App Store.
2. Create New Shortcut: Tap on the "+" sign in the top right corner to create a new shortcut.
3. Add Action: Search for and select "Open App," then choose WhatsApp.
4. Save Shortcut: Save the shortcut with a name like "Hidden WhatsApp." The icon will not appear on your home screen, but you can access it through the Shortcuts app.

Important Notes:

• Backup Data: Before hiding any app, ensure that you have backed up your data to avoid losing important information.
• Password Management: Keep track of the passcodes and settings used in these methods to prevent accidental lockout from your device or apps.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively hide WhatsApp on your iOS device, enhancing your privacy and customizing your home screen experience.