How to set up PIN lock for specific apps on Android 14

Your phone is your digital life, and therefore, its apps are the key to your most sensitive data. That's why it makes sense to protect access to certain apps with a passcode. Here's how to do it. How to set up PIN lock (or equivalent methods) for specific apps In Android 14, what options each manufacturer offers, reliable third-party alternatives, and privacy settings that should be enabled.

First of all, make sure you have a stable connection if you're going to download tools or update the system, although most of the methods you'll see here are native. The good news is that you don't always need to install anything: Android 14 comes with a very powerful "Security and privacy" hub and many manufacturer layers include app locks or private spaces; if you forget your password, check out how to unlock my phone if I forgot my PIN. Let's learn how to How to set up PIN lock for specific apps on Android 14. 

What do we mean by “blocking an app with a PIN”?

When we talk about blocking an app we mean demanding a PIN, pattern, password or biometrics (fingerprint/face) every time someone tries to open it. Depending on the phone, this is implemented in three ways: native system or manufacturer functions, locks built into the app itself (such as WhatsApp or Telegram), and third-party apps dedicated to setting a password for any app you choose.

In addition, some models offer a “private space” or secure folder where you can duplicate or move apps and isolate their data behind an additional lock. Below, you'll see when it's best to use it and its privacy limits.

Eye with a little-known detail: certain platforms set a maximum limit of apps that you can password protect (there are references to a limit of 25 passwords (in some environments). If this applies to you, prioritize banking, email, gallery, cloud storage, and messaging.

Prerequisites and device screen lock

For app lock to work securely, first set up a general screen lock. It's the foundation upon which the rest rest. In Android 14, go to Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock and choose PIN, pattern or password; then you can add biometrics such as fingerprints or face.

Available lock types: No lock (None or Swipe), Locks (Pattern, PIN, Password) and biometrics. Longer PINs and alphanumeric passwords offer greater security; biometrics provide convenience, but they always rely on your PIN/pattern/password.

Note that Some options may not appear if you have set up a VPN or a corporate account on your phone. You can also activate smart unlock features (for example, not locking it if you're carrying it or recognizing your face), knowing that they involve security compromises.

If you want to remove the screen lock, Android allows it with variations depending on the version: in Android 15/14 go to Settings > Security and privacy > Device unlock > Screen lock > enter your password and choose None o Slide; on Android 12/13, you'll find the setting under Security & privacy > Device lock; and on Android 11/10/9, under Security > Screen lock. We do not recommend it if you intend to protect apps with a PIN.

Native Manufacturer Lock: Where to Find It

The exact route varies depending on the brand and its layer. In Android 14, many manufacturers add a app locker or a safe folder/space where to put sensitive apps and require PIN or biometrics.

Samsung: Secure Folder

Samsung integrates "Secure Folder," an isolated space protected with a PIN, pattern, password, or biometrics. Go to Settings > Biometrics and security > Secure Folder, configure it and add the apps you want to protect. Within the folder, each app will require authentication to open, which provides data isolation and notifications.

While it's not a classic "individual lock" on the app outside of that folder, the practical effect is similar: No one will access what you put there without your password. You can move or add apps with a couple of taps.

Xiaomi: App Lock in MIUI

MIUI includes a native switcher: Settings > Applications > Application blocking. Set your PIN (PIN, pattern, fingerprint, and even facial recognition in recent versions like MIUI 15) and choose the apps you want to protect. It's quick and effective if you only need to set a PIN for a few apps and customize the lock screen on Xiaomi.

Huawei: App Lock in EMUI

EMUI offers biometric registration, PIN, pattern or password to lock apps without installing anything: Settings > Security or Privacy > Application blockingSelect the ones you want and you're done. If your model is different, look for "app lock" next to your device name or learn how to remove the screen lock PIN on Huawei. He is a solid and veteran option on Huawei and Honor. Just in case, we've left this article here, so you don't get confused and want to know. How to Remove Huawei Screen Lock PIN.

Realme and OPPO: ColorOS/Realme UI options

Realme UI is based on ColorOS, so the steps are very similar: go to Settings > Password & Security (or Fingerprint, Face & Password in older versions) > activate “App Lock” and then go to Privacy > Application blocking to choose which apps to protect. The unlock method can be fingerprint, PIN or pattern.

OnePlus: App Locker on OxygenOS

On OnePlus, go to Settings > Utilities > App blocker. Activate the lock, set the password, and select the apps. Simple and useful if you're looking for an extra layer of security without resorting to third parties.

vivo: Encrypting apps from iManager

On FuntouchOS, open the iManager app > Utility Tools > App encryption, set the password, and select the apps you want to block. It's a different approach but with the same goal: protect access to your sensitive apps.

Google Pixel: App Lock and “Private Space”

On some Pixels with Android 14 and system updates, you'll find a shortcut to Application blocking within Privacy or Security and Privacy. There are also phones that integrate "Private Space" (a feature launched by Google and available if the manufacturer enables it). With the latter, you can create an isolated space with its own PIN/biometrics and move apps and data there to hide them from the main environment.

Important: “Private Space” is subject to availability. While it allows you to hide apps, Its existence is not always hidden at a technical level (It can be detected via ADB, system logs, or certain apps.) Use it as an effective barrier against prying eyes, not as complete invisibility.

How to block from the app itself: WhatsApp and Telegram

Several apps include their own lock. In WhatsApp, go to Settings > Privacy and enable fingerprint lock (Android) or Face ID/Touch ID (iPhone). You can choose after how much time it asks for authentication (immediately, 1 minute, 30 minutes…).

Keep in mind that this lock only prevents the app from opening: You will still be able to reply from notifications or answer incoming calls if the app allows it. For maximum privacy, combine this option with Android's notification management (I'll explain how to hide notifications below).

In Telegram, go to Settings > Privacy and security and turn on the lock code (in addition to two-step verification). With the lock active, you can instantly lock the app with an icon at the top, strengthening your privacy in seconds.

Android 14: Essential Privacy Settings

Android 14 groups several sections to review your security settings under Settings > Security & privacy. Start with the device privacy analysis and follow its recommendations: screen lock, Google Play Protect, app analysis, etc.

In Privacy > Privacy Dashboard You'll see which permissions your apps have used in the last 24 hours, and you can jump to "Manage Permissions" to revoke them if you detect abuse. It's a clear way to understand what data is used and when.

In Privacy > Permissions manager You can review permissions by category: camera, microphone, contacts, location, photos and video, music and audio, calendar, SMS, call log, nearby devices, notifications, body sensors, physical activity, Connected Health, phone, and additional permissions. Grant only what is essential and, when you can, opt for “Only while using the app.”

Photos and videos on Android 14 support partial access: grant permission only to concrete images when prompted. If you accidentally granted full access, set the app to "always ask" for permission and select specific photos next time. This is how you prevent an app from browsing your entire gallery..

With location, turn off “Use precise location"For apps that don't need it. Most are fine with approximate location; reserve precision for GPS navigation, transportation, or critical services.

More security when entering your PIN, passwords and notifications

In Security & privacy > Device unlock > Screen lock, turn on “Enhanced PIN Privacy” to remove typing animations. This prevents screen-recording malware from deducing your digits from your movements.

In Privacy, disable “Show passwords” so that the last character you type isn't displayed for even a moment. You gain extra security against malicious apps that try to capture your screen.

Disable global access to camera and microphone with two quick switches in Privacy: Camera access y Microphone accessWhen you disconnect them, no app will be able to use those sensors, and when you reactivate them, they will function again according to their permissions.

Finally, in Settings > Notifications > Lock screen notifications, choose whether you want to show everything, hide sensitive content, or show nothing. Prevent messages from being seen on the lock screen prevents unintentional tip-offs.

Control of data you send to Google and associated services

From Privacy > Controls your account activity You can disable web and app activity history, location history, and YouTube history, as well as ad personalization. Less data shared means less advertising profiling and less footprint.

In Privacy > My Listings Manage your advertising ID and turn off personalization. And in Security & Privacy > More security and privacy, turn off “Personalize using app data” and “Usage & diagnostics” if you want to further reduce telemetry sending.

In Settings > Google You have a list of services: Backup, Find My Device, Autofill, Device & Sharing (Cast, Chromebooks), Game Dashboard, Parental Controls (Family Link), etc. Go to “Google App Settings” > Connected apps to see which third-party apps access your account and revoke any that don't apply to you.

In “Search, Assistant & Voice” you can adjust key options: Personal results, Safe Search, Assistant notifications, voice languages, profanity filter, and “OK Google” detection (if you don’t want your phone to listen for the command, turn it off). You can also adjust Language and region and Google's Privacy and Security section.

Find My Device, Play Protect, DNS, and VPN

“Find my device” allows you to locate your phone if you lose it, but it requires send the location periodically to your Google account. You can disable it from Security & Privacy > Device Finder, although you'll lose that safety net. Consider the balance between privacy and recovery from theft.

Google Play Protect, in addition to analyzing apps, can submit application samples to improve malware detection. It's not advisable to turn it off unless you have a compelling reason: it's your default antivirus on Android.

To strengthen your online privacy, consider using a Reliable VPN (masks your IP and encrypts traffic) and set up a Private DNS that blocks trackers and improves security against attacks or operator blocks.

Parental controls, automatic downloads and updates

If you want to avoid unwanted installations on minors' mobile phones, the Google Play Store integrates Parental controls to restrict categories by age. Additionally, Google Family Link allows you to approve or block downloads and set time limits by app.

To block the use (not the download) of certain apps, tools such as AirDroid Parental Control They allow you to limit hours, intervals, or even prevent access altogether. They're useful when you're looking for granular control over screen time and activity reports.

Regarding updates, disable them Automatic Updates in the Play Store if you prefer to manually control which apps are updated. And remember, you can always restrict permissions a posteriori from the Permission Manager if an app requests more than necessary.

Third-party apps to block applications

If your phone doesn't have a native lock, there are very popular third-party solutions. The most widely used is AppLock (DoMobile Lab), with over 100 million downloads and options like PIN/pattern/fingerprint, intruder detection with the front camera, hide the icon, blocking notifications, and automatically blocking new apps. It's lightweight and powerful enough for most.

“App Lock” by InShot Inc. is another alternative with a simple interface, compatible with pattern, fingerprint or password. It receives positive reviews on the Play Store for its ease of use and hassle-free efficiency.

“AppLock – Fingerprint (Lock)” provides extra functions: call blocking, Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth restriction and automatic blocking of newly installed apps. However, some users report that the ads can be annoying.

An important note: Norton App Lock was discontinued officially on June 11, 2024. If you were still using it, migrate to an active alternative to continue receiving security patches. Before installing any blocking app, check Permissions, privacy policy and reviews of users.

“Private Space” on Android: When to Use It and Limits

Some Android phones include a “Private space” accessible in Settings > Security & Privacy > Privacy. It allows you to create a container with its own PIN/fingerprint and isolate apps and data from the main profile. You can sign in with a different Google account to avoid cross-space leaks.

When setting it up, choose whether you want to use the device lock or a new lock for the space. You'll be able to lock it automatically Every time the phone locks, after 5 minutes of inactivity, or just after restarting. When locked, apps in the space stop completely (neither in the foreground nor in the background) and don't appear in recents, settings, the document selector, or search.

When the space is unlocked, you'll see its notifications (marked with an icon). You can install apps from the Play Store or from "All Apps" by long-pressing and selecting "Download apps to private space." There is no copying/transfer of data between the main and private space. to maintain separation.

You can also hide the container in “All Apps” when the space is blocked. Still, it’s important to know that its existence can be discovered By connecting the phone to a computer (ADB), through device logs, or through apps that detect its use. It's not completely invisible, but it is an effective barrier for most scenarios.

Known limitations: Does not support widgets or shortcuts on the home screen, does not back up your device, does not receive content via Quick Share directly, does not allow you to set up a work profile from within, and avoid VPNs on your deviceIf you forget how to unlock the storage, there's no way to recover: you'll need to delete it from your system settings (your apps and local data will be erased).

Digital Wellbeing, hidden apps and other tricks

If what you are looking for is to reduce usage, the app “Digital well-being" allows you to monitor time by app and set daily or hourly limits. It's useful for creating soft boundaries without PIN locks and visualizing habits.

Regarding hidden apps, some launchers and skins offer options to hide icons from the app drawer. Use them as extra discretion, not for real security: hiding isn't the same as blocking, and many hidden apps may still run or send notifications.

If you're concerned about privacy when installing blockers, check their permissions on the Play Store listing and in the "Data Security" section. Recent ratings and reviews They are also a useful compass for detecting problems.

iPhone: Lock and hide apps on iOS

On iPhone with iOS 18, simply long press an app on the home screen and choose “Require Face ID/Touch ID”Optionally, you can select "Hide and Require Face ID" to hide the app from your Home screen, search, notifications, and Siri Suggestions. You'll then find it in the App Library > Hidden folder after logging in.

On iOS 17 or earlier, you can emulate locking with “Use time"by setting a minimum limit (e.g., 1 minute) and protecting that setting with a Screen Time passcode. If you exceed the limit, you'll be asked for that passcode to continue.

Although Apple is restrictive with apps that block others, there are utilities such as lockdown apps to create a controlled environment within the app and require Face ID/passcode to open apps added there. Always check their documentation and permit grants.

Practical tips to close the circle

If you are going to protect dozens of apps, remember the possible limit of 25 keys mentioned in some settings and prioritize critical ones. Keep a backup of your data (photos, contacts, SMS, settings, etc.) and enable Find My Device for emergencies, unless you value privacy above that layer of rescue.

It also protects what is seen on the lock screen, disables the PIN animations, limit permissions per app, use partial photo access, and review the Privacy Dashboard. The system layer counts as much as the app lock itself.

Finally, if you are concerned about exposure to prying eyes on a daily basis, consider combining App lock + private space + notification controlAdd a trusted VPN, a private DNS, and leave Play Protect active to protect yourself from malware. With these steps, you'll have a solid balance of security, privacy, and convenience.

With all of the above, you now know where the native locks are by brand, how to activate the lock from the app itself, which third-party alternatives work well, and which Android 14 settings strengthen protection. By applying these layers wisely, only you will decide who opens what and when., without giving up a fluid experience.