How to find hidden apps on android?

By HotBotUpdated: July 8, 2024

In the realm of Android devices, it is possible to hide applications for various reasons, ranging from privacy concerns to parental controls. Whether you suspect that there are hidden apps on your device or you simply want to ensure that everything is visible and accounted for, this guide provides comprehensive methods to uncover these concealed applications.

Understanding Hidden Apps

Hidden apps on Android devices can be a result of various factors. Some users might hide apps to keep personal data secure, while others may do so to restrict access to certain applications. Additionally, some apps may come pre-installed with the device but remain hidden from the app drawer.

Checking the App Drawer

The first place to look for hidden apps is the app drawer. Here’s how to access and search through it:

1. Open the app drawer by swiping up on the home screen or tapping the app drawer icon.
2. Look for any folders or icons that appear suspicious or unfamiliar.
3. Some launchers have the option to hide apps. Check your launcher settings by tapping the three-dot menu or other menu icons in the app drawer.
4. In the menu, search for options like “Hide apps” or “Hidden apps” and tap them to reveal any hidden applications.

Using Device Settings

The device settings menu can provide a more thorough look at all installed applications, including those that might be hidden:

1. Go to Settings on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on Apps & notifications or Applications.
3. Tap on See all apps or App info to display the full list of installed applications.
4. Review the list for any apps that you do not recognize or that seem out of place.

Third-Party App Managers

Third-party app managers can offer a more detailed view of all applications on your device, including hidden ones. Some popular app managers include:

• ES File Explorer: A robust file manager that can display hidden files and apps.
• Nova Launcher: A customizable launcher that includes options to hide and unhide apps.
• App Inspector: This app provides detailed information on all installed applications, including system and hidden apps.

To use these tools, simply install the desired app manager from the Google Play Store and follow the in-app instructions to reveal hidden applications.

Checking for Hidden System Apps

Some apps are pre-installed by the manufacturer and may be hidden from the user’s view. To check for these system apps:

1. In the Settings menu, go to Apps & notifications.
2. Tap on See all apps.
3. Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner and select Show system or Show system apps.
4. Review the list for any unfamiliar or hidden system applications.

Detecting Hidden Apps Using Safe Mode

Booting your device into Safe Mode can help identify hidden apps by disabling all third-party applications:

1. Press and hold the power button until the power menu appears.
2. Press and hold the Power off option until the Reboot to safe mode prompt appears.
3. Tap OK to reboot into Safe Mode.
4. In Safe Mode, only system apps will be active. Check if the suspected hidden apps are still present. If they are not, they are likely third-party apps.
5. To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your device.

Using Android's File Manager

Android’s built-in file manager or any third-party file manager can be used to search for hidden apps:

1. Open the file manager on your device.
2. Navigate to the Apps folder.
3. Look for subfolders that may contain hidden app files.
4. Some file managers have the option to show hidden files. Enable this option to reveal any hidden files or folders.

Parental Control Apps

Parental control apps can be used to hide applications from children. If you suspect that a parental control app is hiding apps:

1. Go to Settings and navigate to Apps & notifications.
2. Look for any parental control apps installed on the device.
3. Open the parental control app and review its settings to check for hidden applications.

Using ADB Commands

For advanced users, Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands can be used to list all installed packages, including hidden apps:

1. Enable Developer Options on your device by going to Settings > About phone and tapping Build number seven times.
2. Go to Developer options in the settings menu and enable USB debugging.
3. Connect your device to a computer with ADB installed.
4. Open a command prompt or terminal window and enter the command adb devices to ensure your device is recognized.
5. Enter the command adb shell pm list packages -f to list all installed packages.
6. Review the output for any unfamiliar or hidden applications.

Finding hidden apps on an Android device can be a meticulous process, but by leveraging various methods such as checking the app drawer, device settings, third-party app managers, and even ADB commands, you can uncover any concealed applications. Each method offers a unique approach, ensuring that no hidden app remains out of sight. As technology evolves, staying informed about these techniques can help you maintain control over your device's contents.

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