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It’s certainly been an eventful week for Apple mobile loyalists.

Both features are a great way to boost your phone’s privacy and security in just a few taps.

iOS 18 running on an iPhone on a gradient background

Keep reading, and I’ll explain everything you better know about how and why to use these tools.

Apps can be accessed via passcode or biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID).

You’re probably familiar with a similar process when you use online banking via your mobile, for instance.

Screenshot on how to enable Locked App in iOS 18

The iOS 18 update includes additional privacy and security features, too.

You have nowimproved app permissionsthat make it even easier to customize the data you share with apps.

It also added adedicated password appto stay on top of your account security.

Screenshots on how to enable Hidden App on iOS 18

Perhaps my favorite of theiOS 18 privacy featuresis theHidden Appfunctionality which goes even further.

This means that anyone accessing your unlocked phone won’t know you have that software installed on your equipment.

For instance, using one of thebest VPNapps is illegal in a handful of nations.

Some residents reportedly suffered fines or arrests if they couldn’t pay.

At the time of writing, this is only available on Proton’sAndroid VPN.

How to lock your iPhone apps

Locking an app is really easy.

If you change your mind, don’t worry, it’s just as easy to reverse the setting.

Just long-press the app icon again and tap theDon’t Require Face IDbutton.

You’ll have to use your passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID to confirm your choice.

This also means you won’t receive any new notifications from it.

You will be asked for your passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID to open it.

The hidden app will then now appear in the folder tap on it and type your authentication again.