How to Hide WhatsApp Plus Icon on Your Phone Home Screen

In today’s digital world, privacy matters more than ever. Many people use modified versions of popular messaging apps like WhatsApp Plus to enjoy extra features such as advanced customization, hidden statuses, or better privacy controls. However, the app’s icon on your phone’s home screen can sometimes feel too visible, especially if you share your device with family or friends. Learning how to hide WhatsApp Plus icon from the home screen gives you better control over your personal space without affecting how the app works.

Hiding the icon does not delete the app or stop its functions. You can still receive messages, make calls, and use all features normally. The goal is simple: make the app less obvious at first glance while keeping quick access for yourself. This guide explains safe, easy, and effective ways to achieve this on Android phones (the most common platform for WhatsApp Plus). We focus on practical steps using built-in tools and trusted options. By the end, you will know multiple methods to suit your device and needs.

Why Hide the WhatsApp Plus Icon?

People choose to hide app icons for different reasons. It could be to keep things private, reduce distractions on a clean home screen, or simply organize apps better. WhatsApp Plus often stands out because of its custom icon designs, which differ from the official WhatsApp. Hiding it helps maintain discretion without any complicated setup.

Many users report that after hiding the icon, their phone feels more personal and secure. You avoid questions like “What is that app?” from others who pick up your phone. Plus, modern Android versions make this process straightforward with no need for advanced technical skills.

Understanding WhatsApp Plus Basics

Before diving into hiding methods, know that WhatsApp Plus is a modified (or modded) version of the official WhatsApp. It offers extras like theme changes, privacy tweaks, and media downloads. The app installs as an APK file, not from official stores, so its icon appears like any other app on your home screen or app drawer.

Important point: Always download from trusted sources to avoid security risks. Once installed, it behaves like a regular app for hiding purposes. The methods below work the same as for official WhatsApp or any other app.

Method 1: Use Built-in Hide Apps Feature (Easiest for Most Devices)

Most Android phones from brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, Oppo, Vivo, and others include a native option to hide apps. This removes the icon from the home screen and often the app drawer too.

Steps:

1. Open your phone’s Settings app (gear icon).
2. Scroll and tap Home screen or Home screen & App drawer (wording varies by brand).
3. Look for Hide apps, Hide applications, or App lock & hide.
4. Tap it and select WhatsApp Plus from the list.
5. Confirm or apply changes.

The icon vanishes from view. To access the app later:

• Swipe up for the app drawer (if not fully hidden).
• Use search in the drawer and type the app name.
• Or go back to the hide section and unhide it temporarily.

This method is safe, uses no extra apps, and works on Android 9 and above. On Samsung, it might integrate with Secure Folder for added protection.

Method 2: Remove Icon from Home Screen Only (Keep in App Drawer)

If you want the icon gone from the home screen but still visible in the app drawer for easy search:

1. Long-press the WhatsApp Plus icon on your home screen.
2. Drag it to the Remove or Delete option (usually at the top or bottom).
3. Release to confirm.

The icon disappears from the home screen but stays in the app drawer. Swipe up anytime, find it, and tap to open. This is the quickest fix if you do not mind seeing it in the full list.

Pro tip: Create a chat shortcut instead. Open WhatsApp Plus, go to a frequent chat, tap the three-dot menu, and select Add chat shortcut or similar. Place that on your home screen—it looks like a contact icon, not the full app.

Method 3: Use Third-Party Launchers for Advanced Hiding

If your phone lacks a built-in hide option or you want more control, install a customizable launcher. Popular safe choices include Nova Launcher, Apex Launcher, or similar tools from trusted developers.

Why launchers help: They replace your default home screen and offer hide features, often in premium versions.

For Nova Launcher (widely recommended):

1. Install Nova Launcher from a reliable source.
2. Set it as your default home screen (prompt appears after install).
3. Long-press an empty spot on the home screen > Nova Settings.
4. Go to App drawer > Hide apps.
5. Select WhatsApp Plus and hide it.

Hidden apps stay functional but stay out of sight in the drawer and home screen. Nova also lets you change icons, gestures, or create disguised shortcuts.

This method gives full customization. Many users prefer it for a cleaner, personalized phone look.

Method 4: Place in a Folder or Camouflage It

For a low-tech approach:

1. Long-press the WhatsApp Plus icon.
2. Drag it onto another app icon to create a folder.
3. Name the folder something boring like “Tools” or “Utilities”.
4. Add more common apps to the folder to blend it in.

Or move it to a less-used home screen page and fill the main pages with widgets or other icons.

This does not fully hide it but makes it harder to spot quickly.

Method 5: Advanced Privacy with Secure or Private Spaces

Some brands offer secure folders:

• Samsung: Use Secure Folder (in Settings > Biometrics and security).
• Other brands: Look for Private Space, Second Space, or App Twin.

Move WhatsApp Plus there. It creates a locked, separate area. The icon stays hidden unless you enter the secure space with PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.

This is one of the safest ways since it adds encryption-like protection.

Extra Tips for Better Privacy and Access

• Disable notifications previews: Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp Plus > Notifications. Turn off sensitive details so messages do not show on lock screen.
• Use gestures: In some launchers, set a swipe or double-tap to open hidden apps quickly.
• Backup first: Before major changes, back up WhatsApp Plus chats via its settings to avoid data loss.
• Unhide when needed: Most methods let you reverse hiding easily—no permanent changes.
• Keep app updated: Modified apps get updates for better stability and features.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not force-stop or disable the app in system settings—this can break notifications or cause crashes. Avoid unknown hider apps that promise “complete invisibility” as they may carry risks. Stick to built-in features or well-known launchers.

Final Thoughts

Hiding the WhatsApp Plus icon is a smart, simple step toward better phone privacy. Whether you use built-in settings, remove it manually, switch to a custom launcher, or lock it in a secure space, you gain peace of mind without losing functionality. Start with the easiest method for your device—most people see results in under a minute.

Take control today. A cleaner, more private home screen makes daily phone use more enjoyable and secure. Experiment with these steps, find what fits your routine best, and enjoy the extra layer of discretion. Your phone, your rules—stay private and stay connected.