By Locking apps on Android is a useful way to protect sensitive or personal information from people who should not see it. Whether you want to keep others away from your private messages, money apps or other sensitive data, locking apps helps keep your information safe. In this article we look at several ways to lock apps on Android.
Method 1: Using the Built-in Screen Pinning Feature
Screen pinning is a built-in Android feature that locks one app on the screen. While an app is pinned, nobody can leave it or open other apps until it is unpinned. It is handy when you lend your phone to someone but want them to stay in one app. Here is how to use screen pinning:
- Open the Settings app and go to “Security” (on some phones “Security & location”).
- Find “Screen pinning” (often under “Advanced” or “Other security settings”) and turn it on.
- Open the app you want to pin and tap the Recent apps button (the square button) or swipe up and hold.
- Find the app, tap its icon at the top of the card and choose “Pin”.
- When asked to confirm, tap “Got it” or “Start” to pin the app to the screen.
A pinned app stays on the screen until you unpin it. To unpin, press and hold the Back and Recent apps buttons together (or swipe up and hold with gesture navigation).
Method 2: Using Third-Party App Lockers
If you want to lock several apps or need more options, use a third-party app locker. The Google Play Store has many, such as App Lock and Norton App Lock. They ask for a password or pattern before a locked app opens. Here is how to use one:
- Download and install an app locker from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app locker and set a password or pattern.
- Choose the apps you want to lock and tap “Lock”.
- Now, whenever you open a locked app, you will be asked for your password or pattern.
Method 3: Using a Locking Feature from a Custom ROM
If you have a rooted Android device, you can install a custom ROM that includes an app lock. Custom ROMs are modified versions of Android with extra features and options. Popular ones include LineageOS, Paranoid Android and Resurrection Remix. Here is how to lock apps with a custom ROM:
- Root your Android device and install a custom recovery.
- Download and install a custom ROM that includes an app lock feature.
- Once the ROM is installed, open the Settings app and go to the “Security” section.
- Find the app lock feature and select the apps you want to lock.
- Set a password or pattern and turn the lock on.
Once app lock is on, you will be asked for your password or pattern whenever you open a locked app.
