How to use the Private Space feature in Android 15 - and secure your sensitive data

If you've been following the release of Android 15, you know there are plenty of features geared toward improving the security of your device. One of those features is called Private Space, which allows you to set up -- you guessed it -- a private space to house apps and files that are protected behind a separate password/PIN/biometric. 

With Private Space enabled, even if someone gains access to your phone, they can't view anything you've placed within the area.

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However, there have been reports that the new feature is bricking phones. I've enabled Private Space on two Pixel phones and haven't experienced a problem. Second, there are concerns that the new feature makes it easy for Android users to hide things from their significant others, their place of work, or more. 

Despite those controversies, I've found Private Space to improve the Android experience and provide a much-needed security boost. I'm glad for the ability to tuck away apps that house sensitive data about my clients and work.

Let me show you how this feature works.

How to enable Private Space

What you'll need: To access Private Space, you'll only need a phone running Android 15. If the update is available for your device, apply it because the new security features are a must.

To access your Private Space, open the App Drawer and scroll to the bottom, where you'll see the Private entry. Tap Private and you'll be prompted for your PIN or password. Once you've unlocked the Private Space, you can install any apps from the Google Play Store. Those apps will only appear in your Private Space.

Keep in mind that you might want to consider configuring Private Space to lock automatically (when your phone locks). To take this approach, tap the gear icon in your Private Space, then tap "Lock private space automatically" and tap the option you want. 

Also: Here are the top five Android 15 features I love the most

That's how you make use of the new Android 15 Private Space. I suggest enabling this feature to see if it helps make your phone more secure. If not, you can always delete the Private Space and return to where you started.