How to Set a Password for an App on Android and iOS

Our phone´s security is essential, specially when it comes to apps containing sensitive information, such as banking or medical applications. That’s why it’s important to protect them properly, either with a password or another security lock.  

At HitsMobile, we want to provide you with the best tips to safeguard your phone from any intruders. 

But, why Set a Password for an App? 

Protecting these apps adding a password can be very useful in these situaation: to prevent unauthorized access to apps containing sensitive information (messaging, banking, photos, etc.), to control access to certain apps on shared devices or to add an extra layer of security in case your phone is lost or stolen. 

In this article, we’ll explain how to do this quickly and easily on both Android and iOS. 

How to Set a Password for an App on Android  

There are multiple ways to protect your apps on Android, whether through built-in features or third-party applications.  

Generally, most Android devices allow you to use the App Lock function:  

First, you must stablish the screen locck( PIN, password or pattern ). For this, go to Settings > Security > Screen Lock and choose your preferred option.  

Built-in App Lock Features on Android Devices 

The options to block applications depend on the manufacturer and OS´s version. Here are the most common methods for brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel or Huawei, that include native functions to block apps.  

How to Lock an App on Samsung 

Samsung devices come with the Secure Folder feature, allowing you to protect apps using a password, PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. To activate it follow these steps 

1. Open Settings. 

2. Go to Biometrics and Security. 

3. Select Secure Folder. 

4. Set up a password, PIN, or pattern. 

5. Add the apps you want to protect inside the folder. 

How to Lock an App on Xiaomi  

With MIUI 15, Xiaomi has improved its App Lock interface, adding compatibility on facial recognition anda more intuitive sistem to manage protected apps.  

1. Go to Settings. 

2. Select Privacy & Protection. 

3. Enter App Lock. 

4. Set your unlock method (fingerprint, PIN, pattern, or facial recognition). 

5. Choose the apps you want to lock. 

How to Lock an App on Huawei 

With the new EMUI 14 update, Huawei has significantly improved its security features. 

Lock function allows protecting individual apps by PIN, pattern, password or fingerprint, you can even use facial recognition in those models that allow it.  

1. Open Settings. 

2. Go to Security. 

3. Select  App Lock. 

4. Choose your unlock method (PIN, pattern, password, or biometric recognition). 

5. Select the apps you wish to protect. 

How to Lock an App on Google Pixel 

Google Pixel has integrated a new individual app blocking system. Pixel devices with Android 14 can now lock apps without installing third-party apps. 

1. Open Settings. 
2. Go to Privacy. 
3. Select App Lock. 
4. Set up a PIN, pattern, or password. 
5. Choose the apps you want to protect. 

Using Third-Party Apps to Lock Apps on Android 

Third-party apps are another popular way to lock applications. Some of the most widely used options include: 

• AppLock: A widely popular app that lets you lock apps with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.  

• Norton App Lock: From the well-known Norton brand, this app allows you to lock applications using a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint. 

Steps to Use These Apps:  

4. Download and install the app from the Google Play Store. 

5. Open the app and set up a PIN or pattern. 

6. Select the apps you want to lock. 

7. Activate protection, and your selected apps will be locked with the password you chose. 

How to Protect Apps with a Password on iOS 

On iOS devices (iPhone and iPad), there are also option for locking apps, but most require using the operating system´s built-in features.  

For that, Apple offers native tools that restrict app access such as Screentime.  

This is an iOS feature that allows you to set usage limits for apps and content. You can use it to password-protect apps.  

How to Set a Password for an App on iPhone  

Wirth iOS 18, Apple has improved its devide´s security allowing users to block and hide single apps. 

Con iOS 18, Apple ha mejorado la seguridad de sus dispositivos al permitir a los usuarios bloquear y ocultar aplicaciones individuales.  

1. Make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 18. 

2. Press and hold the app you want to lock. 

3. Select Require Face ID (or Touch ID). 

Additionally, you can hide apps to prevent them from appearing on the home screen: 

1. Select Hide and Require Face ID, so the app will be hidden from the home screen and won’t appear in search history, notifications, or Siri suggestions. 

2. To access hidden apps, swipe left to right to open the App Library, go to the Hidden folder, and authenticate yourself to see locked apps. 

For iPhones Without iOS 18: Use Screen Time  

Screen time is a feature that allows to restrict app access. Now, I show you how to use it:  

1. Go to Settings. 

2. Select Screen Time. 

3. Enable Screen Time and set a passcode.This code will be needed to do changes in restrictions  

4. Tap App Limits. 

5. Choose the apps you want to restrict and set a daily usage limit. Once the limit is reached, a passcode will be required to access the app. 

Using Third-Party Apps to Lock Apps on iOS 

Even if Apple has restrictions on third-party apps that lock other apps, there are some tools that you can use to have additional security over your data.  

• Lockdown Apps:  

1. Download Lockdown Apps from the App Store. 
2. Set up a passcode or Face ID to access secured applications. 
3. Add the apps you want to protect.  

Additional Tips to Protect Your Device 

• Enable general device security – Ensure your phone has a secure unlocking method (PIN, pattern, Face ID, etc.). 

• Keep your software updated – Updates often include security enhancements. 

• Use biometric authentication – If your device supports it, enable Face ID or fingerprint recognition for added security. 

Protecting your apps is crucial to safeguarding your personal data. Both Android and iOS provide built-in security features that improve with each update. 

To ensure your phone stays updated and connected, it’s important to have an affordable mobile plan that gives you the best connectivity at the best price.