How to Use Android App Pinning to Protect Your Privacy When Sharing Your Phone

We’ve all been there: a friend asks to borrow your phone to look something up, or your child wants to play a game, and suddenly you’re worried about them "accidentally" stumbling into your private photos, bank apps, or text messages.

While most people rely on a lock screen, there is a better way to secure your data in the moment: App Pinning.

Here is how to use this "hidden" Android security feature to lock a single app on your screen before handing your phone over.

What is App Pinning on Android?

App Pinning (sometimes called Screen Pinning) is a built-in security feature that allows you to "lock" your device to a single application.

• The Result: The person using your phone cannot exit the app, see your notifications, or swipe to your home screen.
• The Key Benefit: It prevents "digital snooping" without requiring you to set up a complex Guest Mode or Work Profile.

Step 1: How to Enable App Pinning

Before you can pin an app, you must turn the feature on in your system settings.

• Open Settings.
• Tap Security (or Security & Privacy > More Security Settings on some devices).
• Look for App Pinning or Screen Pinning.
• Toggle the switch to On.
• Crucial Step: Ensure "Ask for PIN before unpinning" is enabled. This ensures that only you can exit the pinned app.

Step 2: How to Pin an App

Once enabled, pinning an app takes only a second:

• Open the app you want the other person to use (e.g., YouTube, Chrome, or a specific game).
• Open your Overview/Recent Apps screen (swipe up and hold, or tap the square button).
• Tap the App Icon at the top of the app's preview card.
• Select Pin from the menu.

The screen is now locked to that app. Even if the user presses the Home or Back buttons, they won't be able to leave.

Step 3: How to Unpin and Regain Control

When you get your phone back, you can unpin the app following these steps based on your navigation style:

• Gesture Navigation: Swipe up from the bottom and hold.
• 3-Button Navigation: Press and hold the Back and Recent Apps (square) buttons simultaneously.
• Unlock: Your phone will return to the lock screen. Simply enter your PIN, pattern, or use your fingerprint to get back to your full device.