Worried about someone snooping through your phone? Whether it’s messages, photos, or banking details, your apps should stay private. In this guide, we’ll show you how to lock apps on iPhone using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, including clever ways to use parental controls iPhone app features and the best app lock for iPhone to secure your privacy.
Why You Should Lock Apps on iPhone
From kids playing games to friends borrowing your phone, the risks are real. Knowing how to lock apps on iPhone gives you peace of mind and keeps sensitive data away from curious hands. The good news? You don’t always need a third-party solution.
Does Apple Allow Direct App Lock on iPhone?
Here’s the thing: iOS doesn’t give you a one-click button to protect individual apps. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. With a mix of built-in settings like Screen Time and Face ID, you can get an effective result without jailbreaking or sketchy downloads.
Face ID & Touch ID: Easy Ways to Lock Apps on iPhone
Many popular apps include their own lock settings via Face ID or Touch ID. Enabling these makes your data way more secure.
Apps That Support Face ID or Touch ID
- Messenger
- Notes
- Signal
- Dropbox
Steps:
- Open the app and go to Settings
- Navigate to Privacy or Security
- Enable Face ID or Touch ID

Lock Notes App with Face ID or Touch ID
Want to keep your private thoughts truly private? Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Notes > Password
- Set a password and turn on Face ID
- Open the note, tap Share > Lock Note
Using Screen Time as an App Lock
If an app doesn’t support Face ID, don’t worry. Screen Time is a powerful alternative.
Steps to Use Screen Time:
- Open Settings > Screen Time > App Limits

- Choose apps to restrict

- Set a 1-minute limit and enable Block at End of Limit

- Set a Screen Time Passcode
Great for general control and particularly useful if you want to block apps on iPhone for kids.
Using Guided Access for Child Safety
Need to let your child use the phone safely? Guided Access is your go-to.
How to Enable It:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access
- Turn it ON and set a passcode or enable Face ID
- Open the app your child will use
- Triple-click the side/home button and tap Start
Perfect for anyone needing child lock apps on iPhone functionality.
Shortcuts Automation for Extra Security
While not a true lock, Shortcuts lets you simulate security barriers.
Steps:
- Open Shortcuts > Automation > Create Personal Automation
- Choose the app you want to “lock”
- Add actions like Show Alert or Lock Screen
Not a replacement for security, but a fun trick to customize your experience.
Limit App Downloads with Screen Time
Worried about your child downloading random apps?
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases > Installing Apps and select Don’t Allow
A key tactic within the parental controls iPhone app environment.
Apps That Support Built-In App Locks
- WhatsApp – Screen Lock
- Messenger – App Lock
- Signal – Lock Screen
- Dropbox – Face ID
They offer built-in security, functioning like a mini app lock on iPhone setup.
How to Lock Photos on iPhone
Apple lets you secure your Hidden and Recently Deleted albums.
- Go to Settings > Photos
- Turn on Use Face ID
You can also store photos in the Notes app and lock them there for added security.
Built-In Parental Controls
Apple’s Screen Time makes it easy to:
- Set Downtime for bedtime or study
- Apply App Limits to block usage
- Customize settings per child profile
These are essential tools to block apps on iPhone for kids or implement child lock apps on iPhone features.
Do You Need a Third-Party App Lock?
Most third-party app to lock apps on iPhone don’t work due to Apple’s restrictions unless you jailbreak. The best strategy? Use what’s already built into iOS.
Stick with:
- Face ID & Touch ID
- Screen Time
- Notes password
- Guided Access
These options already provide the best app lock for iPhone for most users.
Tips to Strengthen App Privacy
- Keep iOS updated
- Set strong passcodes
- Use Face ID wherever possible
- Disable notifications from the lock screen
- Regularly review app permissions
Even without a dedicated app lock in iPhone, these habits boost your privacy.
Final Thoughts
Now you know lock app on iPhone using native tools and smart tricks. Whether it’s for privacy, kids, or peace of mind, using features like Screen Time and Guided Access gives you control. And when apps support Face ID, enable it—it’s the fastest and safest way to lock them down.
FAQs
What’s the best way to lock apps on iPhone?
Using Face ID or Screen Time is the best way to lock app on iPhone effectively.
Can I download an app to lock apps on iPhone?
Most third-party app to lock app on iPhone won’t work unless your device is jailbroken. Stick to Apple’s built-in tools.
Is there a parental controls iPhone app I can use?
Yes! Apple’s Screen Time is a powerful parental controls iPhone app tool already built-in.
What’s the best app lock for iPhone?
Face ID, Touch ID, and Screen Time together make the best app lock for iPhone setup available.
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