How to Hide Apps on Samsung J2 2017: A Comprehensive Guide
The Samsung J2 2017 is a popular budget smartphone, but like any other Android device, there are times when you might want to hide certain apps. This could be to save space, reduce clutter, or maintain privacy. There are several methods to achieve this, ranging from rooting your device to using third-party applications. Below, we will discuss both methods in detail.
Method 1: Rooting Your Samsung J2 2017
If you are comfortable with the process of rooting your phone, you can use a powerful app like Trash My App to hide APKs (Android Package Kits) without needing root access. However, rooting is a more advanced method and comes with risks. Here are the steps to root your phone:
Step 1: Back Up Your Data
Before proceeding with rooting your phone, make sure to back up all your important data. This will prevent any data loss in case something goes wrong.
Step 2: Download Rooting Tools
Download a reputable rooting app from a trusted source. CF-Auto-Root is a popular choice, as it works on various Android versions.
Step 3: Install and Follow Instructions
Install the rooting app and follow the on-screen instructions carefully. You will need to enable Developer Options and USB Debugging on your phone to proceed. Once done, reboot your phone and follow the app's guidance to complete the rooting process.
Step 4: Install Trash My App
After rooting, download and install Trash My App from the Google Play Store. This app allows you to hide apps by moving them to a hidden folder, making them inaccessible but still downloadable via the app drawer.
Method 2: Using a Launcher with APK-Hiding Features
If you prefer a more user-friendly approach and are not comfortable with rooting, you can use a third-party launcher with built-in APK hiding features. ADWLauncher and HWonder Launcher are two such apps that offer this functionality.
Step 1: Download the Launcher
Go to the Google Play Store and download one of the launchers mentioned above. After installation, you will need to change your homescreen to this launcher from the Settings menu on your phone.
Step 2: Access APK-Hiding Features
Once you have switched to the new launcher, you will find an option to hide individual apps or groups of apps. Simply select the app you want to hide, and it will be moved to a folder with a lock icon, effectively hiding it from your main app drawer.
Step 3: Unhide the App
When you want to access the hidden app, simply re-enable it from the launcher's settings menu. You can also choose to uninstall the app entirely or keep it hidden.
Conclusion
Both methods provide effective ways to hide apps on your Samsung J2 2017, allowing you to maintain a cleaner interface or keep sensitive apps away from unauthorized users. If you are not comfortable with rooting, the launcher method is a safer and easier alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I hide an APK without rooting?
A: Yes, you can use a launcher with APK hiding features without needing to root your phone. Examples include ADWLauncher and HWonder Launcher.
Q: What happens if I uninstall the app?
A: If you choose to uninstall an app from the hidden folder, it will be permanently removed from your device. However, if you just hide it, you can easily re-enable it when needed.
Q: Is rooting my phone dangerous?
A: Rooting your phone comes with potential risks such as voiding the warranty, potential system instability, and increased security vulnerabilities. It is important to research thoroughly and understand the risks before proceeding.