How to Delete Hidden Apps on iPhone (iOS 15.5 and Later)

If an app is taking up space but you can’t find it on your iPhone’s Home screen, it might be tucked away in the App Library or hidden using iOS settings. Even though it’s out of sight, it’s still installed on your device. Here’s how to find and delete those hidden apps for good.


1. Delete Hidden Apps from the App Library

The App Library stores every app installed on your iPhone, even if it’s not on your Home screen.

  1. Swipe left on your Home screen until you reach the App Library.
  2. Use the search bar at the top or browse through the categories to find the hidden app.
  3. Long-press the app icon and tap Delete App from the menu.
  4. Tap Delete again to confirm.

2. Delete Hidden Apps via Spotlight Search

Spotlight can locate any app on your iPhone—even the ones hidden from view.

  1. Swipe down from the middle of the Home screen to open Spotlight Search.
  2. Type the name of the app you want to delete.
  3. When it appears, long-press the app icon and choose Delete App.
  4. Tap Delete again when prompted.

3. Delete Hidden Apps from iPhone Storage Settings

iOS lists all installed apps—including hidden ones—in the Storage section.

  1. Open Settings > General.
  2. Tap iPhone Storage.
  3. Scroll through the list and tap the app you want to remove.
  4. Tap Delete App, then confirm.

This also shows how much space each app is using, which is useful if you’re trying to free up storage.


4. Delete Hidden Apps from App Store Purchase History

You can remove apps directly from your App Store purchase list—even hidden ones.

  1. Open the App Store and tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
  2. Tap Purchased > My Purchases.
  3. Search for the app, then swipe left on it and tap Delete.
  4. Confirm by tapping Delete again.

💡 Tip: Hidden apps won’t show up in your purchase list if they’ve been hidden from Family Sharing or purchase history.

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