Android 15 has ushered in a variety of privacy upgrades, and among them, the **Private Space** feature stands out. This innovative addition helps you securely store sensitive apps in a dedicated area that only you can access. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of setting up and utilizing **Android Private Space** effectively.
What Is Android Private Space?
Private Space acts as a secure storage facility for your most confidential applications. Whether it’s banking apps like Revolut or social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, this feature ensures they are safely tucked away. Access is fortified with a password or PIN, complemented by biometric authentication (if supported by your device).
This feature proves invaluable for those who often share their devices with others—whether it’s children or elderly family members—thereby preventing accidental access to sensitive information. In case of theft, it serves as a robust barrier against unauthorized use. While not foolproof against professional hackers, it significantly reduces the risk from casual observers.
Who Can Use Private Space?
Currently, **Private Space** is exclusive to a select category of devices. To utilize this feature, your phone must be running **Android 15**, including devices like Google’s Pixel lineup and selected models from OnePlus, Honor, and Xiaomi. Additionally, a minimum of 6 GB of RAM is required for optimal performance.
Note that if the manufacturer or an Enterprise Administrator has disabled this feature, access will be restricted. Users on managed devices or those with more than four user profiles will also be unable to enable Private Space. This means you should be the primary user to leverage this functionality.
How Do You Set Up Private Space?
To kickstart the setup, confirm that your device is operating on the latest version of Android 15.
Next, navigate to Settings and head over to Security & privacy.
From there, select Private space.
Authenticate your identity using biometric methods or a PIN.
Tap the Set up button on the following screen.
Google suggests that you create a separate Google account specifically for your Private Space. This measure prevents your data from appearing outside this secure area. Click Got it to proceed.
Tap Create account, or log into an existing one that you rarely use.
Choose a new lock screen for your Private Space. While you can use the existing lock screen, opting for a new one increases your security level.
To access your Private Space, open the App Drawer and swipe to the bottom. Click the Private bar at the bottom.
Your Private Space should now be visible!
How to Move Apps into Your Private Space
With your Private Space set up, it’s time to fill it with apps. However, moving apps isn’t as straightforward as dragging and dropping.
Your Private Space comes preloaded with a few essential apps such as Chrome, Contacts, and Camera. To add new apps, long-press the icon of the app you wish to install and select Install in private.
This action will redirect you to the Google Play Store, enabling you to install apps directly into your Private Space. For added security, ensure you delete the associated apps from the main space.
Once you’ve successfully added the desired apps, click on the Lock icon.
How to Install Apps Directly to Private Space
Alternatively, you can install apps straight from within Private Space. Launch it and press the Install button.
This action takes you to the Google Play Store, where you can search and install apps just as you typically would. To uninstall an app later, long-press on it within Private Space to remove it.
How to Hide Private Space from View
By default, the Private Space bar appears on your App Locker. If you wish to keep this feature from being noticed, consider hiding it from view.
To do this, navigate to Settings -> Security & privacy -> Private space. Authenticate your identity and tap on the Hide private space option.
Enable the switch next to Hide private space when it’s locked.
To access your hidden apps, simply search for Private Space within your apps list.
How to Remove Private Space
If you decide to delete Private Space from your Android device, go to Settings -> Security & privacy -> Private space once again. Tap on Delete private space.
Finally, confirm your choice by pressing the Delete button and verifying your identity.
Are you looking for more tips on enhancing your security and privacy?
All images and screenshots provided by Alexandra Arici.
Additional Insights
1. What types of apps are best suited for Private Space?
Private Space is ideal for storing sensitive apps such as banking, secure messaging, and personal photo storage. Apps that manage critical personal information should be your primary focus.
2. Can I share my Private Space with other users?
No, Private Space is designed for private use only by the primary user of the device. It cannot be accessed or shared with other user profiles, ensuring your information remains confidential.
3. What happens to the apps in Private Space if I remove it?
If you delete Private Space, all apps and data stored within it will also be permanently removed. Make sure to back up any important information before proceeding with deletion.
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