Privacy matters more than ever. Whether you want to keep photos, documents, or apps safe from prying eyes, your Google Pixel phone has multiple built-in options to protect sensitive data.

While Pixel phones don’t have Samsung’s Secure Folder, you can achieve the same protection using Google’s “App Lock,” “Screen Pinning,” “Private Space,” and “Locked Folder” features.

This guide will show you how to set up a secure folder or app lock on your Google Pixel, step by step — using official Android tools, not third-party apps.

1. Use Google Photos Locked Folder (For Private Media)

If you only want to hide personal images or videos from your gallery or other apps, Locked Folder in Google Photos is the best option.

To set it up:

  1. Open the Google Photos app.

  2. Tap your profile picture → choose Photos settings.

  3. Tap Privacy → Locked Folder.

  4. Tap Set up Locked Folder.

  5. Verify your screen lock (PIN, pattern, or fingerprint) to create the secure space.

Now you can move private photos or videos into this folder:

  • In Photos, select items → tap Move to Locked Folder.

✅ Important: Items in the Locked Folder won’t appear in Google Photos backup or cloud sync — they’re stored only on your device.

2. Set Up Screen Lock (Mandatory for Privacy Features)

To protect all other security tools, your Pixel must have a strong lock screen method.

To enable or change it:

  1. Go to Settings → Security & privacy → Device unlock → Screen lock.

  2. Choose a method: PIN, Pattern, or Password.

  3. Confirm your choice and set up fingerprint unlock if available.

✅ Pro tip:
Avoid using 4-digit PINs — use at least 6 digits or a combination password for better protection.

3. Use App Lock via Digital Wellbeing “App Timer” Trick

While Pixels don’t have a native App Lock, there’s a smart workaround using Digital Wellbeing that prevents apps from opening without your permission.

Here’s how:

  1. Open Settings → Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.

  2. Tap Dashboard.

  3. Select the app you want to “lock.”

  4. Tap App timer → Set 0 hours and 0 minutes.

Now the app will instantly close every time someone tries to open it.
You can remove or adjust the timer anytime.

✅ This method works best for apps like Messages, Gallery, or Social media apps you don’t want others accessing freely.

4. Use Screen Pinning to Lock One App Temporarily

If you hand your Pixel to someone (e.g., to show a photo), Screen Pinning ensures they can only use one app and can’t access anything else.

To enable it:

  1. Open Settings → Security & privacy → More security settings → App pinning.

  2. Toggle App pinning ON.

  3. Turn ON Ask for unlock pattern before unpinning (for safety).

To pin an app:

  1. Open the app you want to lock.

  2. Swipe up from the bottom → hold until you see the recent apps view.

  3. Tap the app icon at the top → select Pin.

To exit, swipe up and hold, then enter your PIN or pattern.

✅ Perfect for letting someone use your phone briefly without full access.

5. Use Private Space (on Android 15 and newer)

If your Pixel runs Android 15 or higher, you can now use Private Space, a secure area completely separate from your main profile.

It acts like a hidden folder where you can install apps, store files, or sign in with different accounts.

To set up Private Space:

  1. Open Settings → Security & privacy → Private Space.

  2. Tap Set up Private Space.

  3. Create a unique PIN, pattern, or password (you can choose a different one from your main phone).

  4. Choose whether to hide the space from your app drawer.

You can open your Private Space anytime by:

  • Going to Settings → Security & privacy → Private Space → Enter PIN,
    or

  • Using your app drawer and tapping Private Space (if visible).

✅ Note: Files and apps in Private Space are fully isolated from your main account and backups.

6. Use Files by Google “Safe Folder”

If you store private documents or downloads, use the Safe Folder inside the Files by Google app.

To enable it:

  1. Open the Files by Google app.

  2. Tap Browse → Safe Folder.

  3. Tap Set up Safe Folder → choose a PIN.

Now move sensitive files into it securely:

  • Select any file → Move to Safe Folder.

✅ Bonus: The folder auto-locks every time you close the app.

7. Add Extra Protection with Two-Step Verification

Even if your phone is stolen or hacked, enabling 2-Step Verification on your Google Account adds another security layer.

To enable it:

  1. Visit myaccount.google.com/security.

  2. Under Signing in to Google, tap 2-Step Verification.

  3. Follow the steps to verify your phone number or use your Pixel as a security key.

✅ With 2FA enabled, nobody can access your account data even if they know your password.

8. Optional: Use Third-Party App Lockers (Cautiously)

If you need fingerprint or pattern lock for individual apps, you can try trusted third-party apps such as:

  • AppLock by DoMobile Lab

  • Smart AppLock

  • Norton App Lock

Important tips:

  • Download only from Google Play Store.

  • Avoid apps asking for unnecessary permissions (like contacts or location).

  • Never install app lockers from unknown websites — they may steal data.

9. Combine Features for Maximum Security

For the best privacy setup:

  • Use Locked Folder for personal photos/videos.

  • Use Safe Folder for documents.

  • Use Screen Pinning for temporary sharing.

  • Use Private Space (if Android 15+) for apps and hidden data.

  • Use App Timers as soft locks for distracting apps.

Each layer adds more protection, making it almost impossible for anyone to access your data without permission.

Final Thoughts

Google Pixel phones don’t have Samsung’s Secure Folder, but with Locked Folder, Private Space, and App Pinning, you can build a security system that’s just as powerful — entirely within Android.
By combining these features and keeping your Google Account protected with 2-Step Verification, your Pixel becomes a true privacy fortress.

Keep your software updated, avoid installing sketchy apps, and review permissions regularly.
With these steps, your sensitive files, photos, and apps stay 100% safe — even if your phone ends up in someone else’s hands.

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