How to hide photos and videos on iPhone and iPad for privacy

Managing private media on iPhone and iPad is straightforward using the built-in features of the Photos app. Apple's system offers a simple yet effective method for hiding sensitive photos and videos from the main gallery. This allows users to ensure that their personal content is not easily accessible to others without needing external apps.

The Hidden album is the primary tool within the Photos app for achieving this. When media is hidden, it is removed from the main photo library and stored in a dedicated Hidden album. However, the album remains visible unless manually disabled in the settings. This offers a balance between easy access to hidden files and basic privacy.

For more control, Apple allows the Hidden album to be secured with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode starting in iOS 16. This adds a layer of authentication, ensuring that only authorized users can view hidden content. The integration of these security features enhances privacy without complicating access to hidden media.

1. Open the Photos app.
2. Select the photo or video you want to hide.
3. Tap the Share button.
4. Scroll down and tap Hide.
5. Confirm by tapping Hide Photo or Hide Video.

   Hidden photos and videos will be moved to the Hidden album and removed from the main gallery.

1. Open the Photos app.
2. Go to the Albums tab.
3. Scroll to the Hidden album under the Utilities section.
4. Tap to open and view hidden media.

   By default, the Hidden album is visible in the Albums tab. You can change this in settings if necessary.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll to Photos and tap it.
3. Toggle off Show Hidden Album.

   This will remove the Hidden album from the Albums tab, though the media remains hidden within the Photos app.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll to Photos and tap it.
3. Toggle on Use Face ID/Touch ID/Passcode to enable authentication for the Hidden album.