iPhone owners might not be aware of a very useful function tucked away on their devices that can keep photos safe from prying eyes.
If you have one of these popular smartphones tucked in your pocket and happen to snap an image that you really don’t want others to see, there is a simple way to securely lock things away.
Apple first introduced its “Hidden” images folder when it launched iOS 14 back in 2020. This option allows users to place personal photographs in a unique area that can’t be seen when accessing the device’s Photo library.
“When you hide photos and videos, they move to the Hidden album, so they don't appear in your Library, in other albums, or in the Photos widget on your Home Screen,” Apple explains.
However, anyone who has upgraded to the latest iOS 16 operating system will find things are even harder to access with that “Hidden” folder now able to be locked behind Apple's Face ID Facial recognition.
That means even if someone gets hold of your device when the screen is unlocked, they won’t be able to view any private photos without authentication.
If you have photos of pin numbers, bank statements and passport details - or are planning a surprise and have taken snaps that you don’t want people to see - here is how to use and set-up the “Hidden” album.
How to hide photos on iPhone or iPad
• Open Photos.
• Select the photo or video that you want to hide.
• Tap the More button , then tap Hide.
• Confirm that you want to hide the photo or video.
How to find the Hidden album
• Open the Photos app.
• Tap the Albums tab.
• Scroll down and look for the Hidden album under Utilities. On iPad, you might need to tap the sidebar icon in the upper-left corner first to see your albums.
How to set-up Face ID security
To keep Hidden photos locked behind added security simply go to settings then scroll down to Photos.
Here, make sure “Use Face ID” is switched on.
Each time you try to access the “Hidden” folder you’ll be asked to verify things via your face.
