To lock apps on an iPhone, especially with iOS 18 or later, you can use the official Apple feature that allows locking apps with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. Here's how to do it:

Locking Apps Using Face ID, Touch ID, or Passcode (iOS 18+)

1. Find the app you want to lock on your Home Screen, App Library, or via Spotlight Search.
2. Touch and hold the app icon until the quick actions menu appears.
3. Tap Require Face ID , Require Touch ID , or Require Passcode depending on your device’s capabilities.
4. Confirm your choice by authenticating with Face ID, Touch ID, or entering your passcode.
5. The app will now be locked and require authentication each time you open it.

This method locks the app and also prevents its information from appearing in places like notification previews, Siri suggestions, CarPlay, and call history, enhancing your privacy

Alternative Method: Using Screen Time to Lock Apps (iOS 12+)

If you want to lock apps with a time limit that requires a passcode to bypass:

1. Open Settings and go to Screen Time.
2. Tap App Limits and then Add Limit.
3. Select the apps or categories you want to lock.
4. Set a minimal time limit (e.g., 1 minute).
5. Enable Block at End of Limit.
6. Set a Screen Time passcode if you haven't already.

After the time limit expires, the app will require the Screen Time passcode to be used further, effectively locking it

Notes

• Some apps cannot be locked or hidden.
• Locking an app on one device does not sync to others via iCloud; you must lock apps on each device individually.
• Children under 13 in Family Sharing cannot lock apps; ages 13–17 can

• For older iOS versions (iOS 11 or earlier), you can hide built-in apps via Restrictions, but not third-party apps

This provides a secure and user-friendly way to lock apps on your iPhone without third-party apps.