Our phones are considered part of our most private identities, this is why it is necessary to find means by which to keep some of the components in our phones hidden away from prying eyes. Whether its those confidential files or those adult apps that you don't want your child coming across, there are a variety of ways you can keep them out of reach.

How to Hide Files

As most Android phones lack the required features to perform this task, you may need to rely on third-party apps in the hiding of your files. One of the better choices of apps include the File Hide Expert.This is a free app that allows you to easily hide and unhide any of file on your Android phone. To start using it, from the Google Play Store simply download and launch the app; once its launched you will receive a notification that there are no hidden files. At the top right of the screen, hit the folder icon to start hiding all types of files.Select the files you want to hide, before navigating back to the main screen.  Tap Hide All to to render the files inaccessible to any snoopers. They will no longer be displayed in your gallery or file managers. To unhide, launch the File Hide Expert and select Restore All.For even more privacy, take advantage of the File Hide Expert's password functionalities in the Settings menu which prevent anyone from accessing the app as well.

How to Hide Photos

Though technically, you can rely on File Hide Expert to hide any sort of file, you may need something more efficient for your pictures. KeepSafe is a great alternative for keeping your pictures private, especially for those that are a bit risque.KeepSafe creates a media folder on your phone, which you can basically add all the things you don't want to appear in any other place. It allows you to set up a PIN code to access the all-in-one location of your items. It also features a cloud back up feature where you can access your lost files in case you lose or break your phone.KeepSafe comes in two versions, one that is free and another with premium features such as a stylish PIN theme, a fake PIN that gives user the impression that they've gotten access to the files you have hidden and a "secret pathway" that makes the KeepSafe app seem more of a utility app, a failed login attempt alert that notifies you when someone tries to reach your hidden files and much more. For the premium version, there is a $4.99 monthly payment.

How to Hide Apps

Hiding apps can be a good way to declutter home screen or even the app drawer apart from keeping them away from snoopers.Some smartphone manufacturers such as Samsung have launchers with this features pre-installed on your device, negating the need for reliance on third party apps. If your device lacks one, then the Nova Launcher would be a excellent option.Simply download the Nova Launcher from the Play Store and then launch the app drawer. Choose the apps to hide and they will no longer be seen on the app drawer. What other ways do you keep your files, photos or apps hidden? Let us know in the comments.

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What's my model number?

There are several ways to locate your model number:

Option 1
On your device, go to Settings, then "About device" and scroll down to "Model number"
Option 2
Often times you can view the model number inside the device, by removing the battery
Option 3
Using Samsung's model/serial number location tool

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