September 25, 2026

Put sensitive apps in a Private space

Settings > Security & privacy > Private space. Apps in there stop running while the space is locked.

• Privacy & Security
• Moderate · 5 min
• Android 15 and 16, including Pixel
• Fix: set up Android Private space
• Cheat sheet

How to do it

1. 01

   Open Settings > Security & privacy > Private space.

2. 02

   Follow the setup and authenticate with your screen lock.

3. 03

   When it offers a Google account, use a different account if you do not want those apps syncing into your main one. You can skip the account.

4. 04

   Install the apps you want inside the space. Open the space from the bottom of the app drawer.

5. 05

   In the space's settings, choose when it locks. Every time the device locks is the strict option.

A medical app, a messaging app you must hear, or anything that should run while the phone is locked does not belong in here. Those apps are paused on purpose.