Hidden Apps can't be search after the update

[Azyx]

Hi. I recently updated my OS few days ago. I am using a Note 20 Ultra. After the update, I'm already experiencing trouble with searching/finding the apps that I hid, using the search/finder tab/bar. I hide the apps I rarely use, my Online Banking apps which I don't want to be showing on my home screen for safety and privacy purposes, and app I sometimes use like for editing, online shopping and hotel bookings, and the Samsung Notes that I use often use but I want to be stay hidden for personal matter. I already check the settings but to no avail. I already contacted the support but, Rawan, but the Samsung Support told me to submit an error report, which I did. But, I haven't received any feedback yet. Anybody here experiencing same issue? Hope you can help. Stay safe to all. 

[Samsung_specialist]

Hi there, 

You may try the following:

- Try to check the apps from Galaxy store, then if they are shown in Home screen try to re-hide them.

And try to apply the steps to wipe or clear the Cache Partition on a Samsung

1. Turn off your Samsung device.

2. Press and hold the Volume Up key and the Bixby / Power key.

3. Release buttons.

Once the Android Recovery screen comes up, you can let go of the buttons.

4. Highlight “Wipe cache partition”.

Use the Volume Down button to highlight ‘Wipe cache partition.’

5. Select “Wipe cache partition”.

Press the Power button to select ‘Wipe cache partition.’

6. Highlight “Yes”.

Use Volume Down button to highlight “Yes.”

7. Select “Yes.

Press the Power button to confirm “Yes.”

8. Allow the system to clear the cache.

Wait for a few moments as the system wipes the cache.

9. Select “Reboot system now.”

Press the Power button to reboot the device. This will return the device to the normal interface.

Or, you can bring the device to the nearest Samsung Service Center to you to have it checked out by a technician. 

[MohammedSijah]

Hi, thank you for your detailed description. Understanding your pain points. But still, I have some better tips for you to keep you in the same flow, with some extra security.
You can get it with secure folder.
Now just with your finger tips, the secure folder can be opened directly from the lock screen . (If you haven't launched the secure folder, Goto > Settings > Biometrics and security> Secure folder > Show icon on App screen. Now you can see secure folder in the app screen)

[MohammedSijah]

Here you can add any of your files and apps. Note that, apps added to secure folder will be dual. So you can uninstall them from the homescreen. (Tap + to add apps)
Now tap the three dots on the top and tap Settings > Lock type. Here you can add a dedicated finger exclusively for secure folder. After that, whenever you unlock your device with that specific finger, secure folder opens up. Just forget about hiding apps. Keep them secure with password. This will be more easy method for you and you'll really enjoy it. Hope that helps.

[MohammedSijah]

You can even change the name of secure folder and also its icon too. Click three dots > customise.
You can add files from gallery too. Select the files and tap > add to secure folder.

And about Samsung notes, you can lock your sensitive notes separately with password. Samsung notes > select your note (press and hold)> Lock.

[Azyx]

Thank you for those tips about the feature of the secure folder that I already know. I really do appreciate it. But, I don't want to do all that. I am more comfortable in hiding my apps and look for it in 'finder tab' or 'search bar' whenever I need it. Aside from that, I wanted to know why is it happening after the update? Is that a glitch/error in the update?

[MohammedSijah]

Better, have a query with anyone who have installed the same update. Actually in my view, this scene makes some sense. Because some users ask for the methods to hide apps from the search results too. Hidden apps appearing again in the same screen, don't make any sense. Also the one whome you hide can do the same search and it's no more hidden. For most of the users this will be a useful update. That's what gives prominence for the secure folder also. Once got used, that's very simple too. Just have a try.

[Azyx]

Someone left a comment on this thread that after the recent update, hidden apps can no longer be searched. So, I am thinking maybe, the update did exactly what you just said. Hidden apps not appearing on the search / finder. Well, to each their own. In my case, hiding apps doesn't necessarily mean I don't want it to not appear on my finder/search. That's what a 'finder' or a 'search' tab is for, to look for something hidden. Besides, why would Samsung put that Finder/Search if it will not function the way it is intended for. I don't just get it. Been a Samsung user for more than a decade and out of all the updates they did this is something that ticks me off. Just hoping to get an answer from the report I did. Thanks for the help. Stay safe and have a weekend ahead.

[MohammedSijah · Accepted solution]

Yes, actually I have seen lots of users with a hundreds of apps in their device, unorganized. Their appscreen may scroll to 3 or 4 pages with lots of folders. I think the search field is designed for them. (See my single-page app screen -Mr.Organizer 😎)
In addition to that, the search field is not just meant for searching apps only. Just click the 'show more' button. Everything in your device appears there -even Samsung members posts, galaxy store and lots of things. You can search the web too.
So that's why I advised you to switch to the correct usage. Search bar is not for you :). Anyway happy to assist you. Have great days.

[Azyx]

I received this reply from Samsung Team. Maybe you can help me access that Finder folder settings they are talking about? I can't seem to find that folder either. I checked on Finder Settings, The Software info, the General Info, but I can't seem to find the OS Finder Folder. Thanks.