6 Best App Locks for Android Phone and iPhone in 2024

You lend your phone to a friend to make a quick call or show them a photo, or you lose your phone or it falls into the wrong hands. In either case, one thing you will worry about is that your privacy and information will be leaked.

We've all been there. Our smartphones hold private and sensitive information that we'd rather keep away from prying eyes. This is why app locks are becoming a necessity. In this article, we pick out some of the new options after testing them. Now, read below for our latest picks of the best app locks for Android phones and iPhones.

Top 6 App locks for Android and iOS Devices

1LockID

LockID is an app lock I highly recommend for those seeking to block apps on iPhones. Besides its app-blocking function, it serves as a vault app, allowing you to hide an unlimited number of photos and videos. And it also comes with a private browser. The unlocking options are flexible, so I can use FaceID, password, or fingerprint.

Having personally used it, I've found it to offer a clean interface, and the locking process is accomplished by adding a shortcut. While it doesn't allow for direct locking by tapping the lock icon like some Android apps, LockID provides a video guide and image guide, which is very intuitive to me. An added convenience is the ability to set a time limit on the locked app.

Some of its other features include:

• Vault for unlimited photos and video
• Provide a private browser
• Provide a Time Limit feature

2Applock Pro

Applock Pro has been my go-to app for securing my apps on my Android phone. My favorite feature is how it divides the app list into locked and unlocked sections, so I can easily manage my apps.

It allows me to use different biometric methods and also allows me to set security questions in case I forget my password. I can set a fake app icon as well as hide notifications from locked apps to maintain my privacy. The 'incorrect alert' and the 'attempt limit' show further enhanced security that can throw off anyone trying to access my apps.

Some of its other features include:

• Phone usage statics
• Network statics
• Provide a VPN
• Smart lock setup, including safe time interval and relock time
• Spy camera for taking a selfie who attempt to access the app

3AppLock by DoMobile Lab

AppLock by DoMobile Lab is a vault app for securing your personal apps or other files. From my personal usage, From my personal use, I found it to be very secure, user-friendly, and intuitive to operate. I particularly like the 'Intruder Selfie' feature, capturing anyone attempting to unlock my applications.

Also, I've found the 'Time Lock' features of AppLock to be extremely practical. The ability to set automatic lock activation based on time has been a convenience in many scenarios.

The downside is that the free version contains many ads, which can be really annoying. The iOS version can only vault files without offering app blocking feature.

Some of its other features include:

• Vault for photo, video, audio, and APK
• Provide a private browser.
• Provide CLEAN UP to free up space
• The 'Intruder Selfie' feature can capture attempts to unlock your apps
• A 'Time Lock' feature to set automatic lock activation based on time

4Forest

Unlike other app locks, Forest isn't an app that blocks apps directly, it's an app designed for focus and productivity.

I've personally found it to be incredibly effective for boosting productivity and focus. In my experience, the key feature that sets Forest apart is its unique approach to maintaining user focus. Once you set the timer in the app and your tree starts growing, you cannot switch to other apps without killing the tree, essentially creating a 'lock' on external distractions.

This feature has drastically curbed my habit of frequent app-switching, enabling me to dedicate undivided attention to the task at hand. The satisfaction of seeing my forest grow with successful focus sessions gives me both a sense of accomplishment and a visually pleasing representation of my productivity.

Some of its other features include:

• Focus timer customization
• Tags and notes for each focus session
• White Noise to enhance your focus environment
• Planting with friends

5Focus To-Do

Like Forest, Focus To-Do is not a dedicated app lock. Speaking from firsthand experience with Focus To-Do, this app skillfully merges task management with the Pomodoro Technique to elevate productivity levels. Upon setting the timer for a focus session, I am prevented from idly switching between apps, a feature that I find remarkably effective for maintaining concentration.

Moreover, the app's progress tracking feature serves as a personal productivity diary, enabling me to monitor and refine my time management skills progressively. So, if you're seeking a structured yet adjustable approach to improve focus and productivity, I'd recommend giving Focus To-Do a try based on my positive experience.

Some of its other features include:

• Sub-tasks for complex task management and better organization
• Tags to tasks to categorize them in a way that suits your needs
• Priority Levels for tasks to help manage your workload effectively
• Supports cloud backup

6AirDroid Parental Control

AirDroid Parental Control is a tailored solution for parental supervision of children's device usage. As a user, I value its ability to limit screen time and adjust an app's usage time down to zero, effectively locking it and preventing access from kids. Its customizable controls fit a child's needs and schedule perfectly.

The one-click feature locking all applications is handy when immediate focus is needed away from the device, and the prevention of new app installations ensures children stick to parent-approved apps.

Some of its other features include:

• Monitor online usage
• Detect inappropriate content
• Real-time location
• Remote monitoring and live listening

How We Choose App Lock for Mobile Devices

Choosing the right app lock involves more than just picking the first one that comes up in a search. Our selection process is a comprehensive review that focuses on crucial factors that determine the effectiveness and reliability of an app lock. Here are the criteria that we considered:

Security Features

The core function of an app lock is to secure your apps, so we look at the breadth and depth of security features offered. This includes the types of locking mechanisms, intruder alert features, and the ability to customize the lock settings.

Ease of Use

No matter how secure App Lock is, it does no good if it's too complicated to use. We value a user-friendly interface and simple functionality.

Customer Rating and Reviews

We dive into user reviews to gather insights on common issues, app performance, and overall satisfaction. This helps us identify real-world issues that may not be obvious in the application description.

Recovery Options

We also check to see if the app offers a process for recovering your password or PIN, in case you forget it. Without this, users may be locked out of their own applications.

To Wrap It Up

Now that you know the best app locks for Android phones and iPhones, which one do you think is the best choice for you? And do you think AirDroid can help fortify your security more? Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments section below.