Are you looking to hide the Apple Watch icon from your iPhone 6? Maybe you no longer use your Apple Watch and want a cleaner home screen, or perhaps you want to prevent accidental access. Whatever your reason, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to hide the Apple Watch app icon on your iPhone 6. Keep in mind, since the iPhone 6 runs iOS 12 or earlier, some options may be limited compared to newer iOS versions. Before starting, ensure your iPhone 6 is updated to the latest compatible iOS version to access all available features.
What You’ll Need
- An iPhone 6 with iOS 12 or earlier installed
- Access to the Settings app
- Optional: A computer with iTunes or Finder (if you plan to disable the app via restrictions or backup methods)
Step-by-Step
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone 6. Locate the gear-shaped icon on your home screen and tap it.
- Scroll down and tap on “General.” This menu contains most of your device’s core settings.
- Within the General menu, find and select “Restrictions” (or “Screen Time” if your device has been updated to iOS 12 with Screen Time). If Restrictions are enabled, you will need to enter your Restrictions passcode. If not enabled, proceed to the next step.
- If Restrictions are enabled, toggle off the restriction for apps by finding the “Apps” or “Allow Apps” option and disabling it, or specifically disable the Apple Watch app if listed.
- If Restrictions are not enabled or you want to hide the app without restrictions, go back to your home screen and locate the Apple Watch app icon.
- Tap and hold the Apple Watch app icon until a menu appears or the icons start to jiggle (depending on your iOS version). Tap the “Remove App” option (a minus sign or a delete option).
- Confirm that you want to delete the app if prompted. Note: Deleting the Apple Watch app will remove it from your home screen but not delete the app data. You can reinstall it later from the App Store if needed.
- Alternatively, if you simply want to hide the icon without deleting the app, you can move it into a folder. Tap and hold the icon, then drag it into an existing folder or create a new one by dragging it over another app.
- To hide the folder icon, you can move all icons out of the folder, leaving the folder empty. Although the folder icon remains, the Apple Watch app will be hidden from immediate view.
- Another method involves resetting your home screen layout. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Home Screen Layout. This will restore your home screen to the default layout, removing any custom arrangements but not hiding specific apps. To truly hide the app, the deletion or folder method is better.
- Remember, the Apple Watch app cannot be completely hidden via system settings in iOS 12 or earlier without deleting it or using restrictions. If you wish to disable the app entirely, consider removing the Apple Watch from your paired devices and deleting the app.
Common Mistakes
- Deleting the app instead of hiding it: Deleting removes the app entirely, which may not be your goal if you plan to use it again later.
- Forgetting to disable Restrictions: Restrictions can prevent app deletion or hiding, so ensure they are set appropriately.
- Moving apps into folders incorrectly: Make sure to hold and drag apps properly, especially on older iOS versions, to avoid accidental removal.
- Not backing up before deleting apps: Always back up your device before removing apps if you’re concerned about data loss.
- Ignoring the limitations of iOS 12: Some hiding options are limited on older iOS versions, so consider updating if possible.
Tips
- Use folders to organize and hide apps without deleting them, keeping your home screen tidy.
- Consider disabling notifications for the Apple Watch app to prevent alerts if you want to ignore the app rather than hide it.
- If you want to temporarily hide the app, move it into a folder or off the first home screen page.
- To prevent accidental opening, disable the app’s notifications via Settings > Notifications.
- Remember that deleting the app from your iPhone does not delete your Apple Watch data; to unpair your watch, do so through the Watch app.
Troubleshooting
If the Apple Watch icon refuses to hide or delete, try these steps:
- Ensure Restrictions are disabled or configured to allow app deletion or hiding.
- Restart your iPhone 6 by pressing and holding the power button, then sliding to power off. Turn it back on and try again.
- Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version compatible with your device—this can improve app management options.
- If the app is still visible after deletion, check if it’s a default system app that cannot be removed. In that case, hiding it in a folder is the only option.
- Reset your home screen layout again if apps are misplaced or not hiding as expected.
- If issues persist, consider restoring your device via iTunes, but back up first to prevent data loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely hide the Apple Watch app on an iPhone 6?
On iOS 12 and earlier, you cannot entirely hide the Apple Watch app without deleting it. The best workaround is to delete the app or move it into a folder.
Will deleting the Apple Watch app remove my watch data?
No, deleting the app from your iPhone does not delete your Apple Watch data. Your watch remains paired and retains its data unless you unpair it.
Can I hide the Apple Watch icon without deleting the app?
Yes, you can hide the app by moving it into a folder or off the first home screen page. However, the icon will still be accessible if the folder is opened.
Is there a way to disable the Apple Watch app without deleting it?
Not directly. You can restrict access via Restrictions or Screen Time, or disable notifications to prevent usage.
Will updating to a newer iOS version help hide the app more effectively?
Yes, newer iOS versions provide more options for managing app visibility and restrictions, making it easier to hide or disable the app.
What should I do if I accidentally delete the Apple Watch app?
You can reinstall it from the App Store if needed. Simply search for “Apple Watch” and download it again.
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