How to Fix App Icons Disappeared from Home Screen (Android/iOS)

Introduction 

Have your app icons suddenly vanished from your Android phone or iPhone home screen? Don’t worry there is a common issue that can be fixed easily and fast. Whether it is due to accidental settings changes, software glitches, or system updates, these guide will walk you through step-by-step solutions for the both Android and iOS devices.

 

Part 1: Fix for the Android

 

1. Check App Drawer

Swipe up or tap the app drawer icon on your home screen.

Look for the missing app. 

If found: Tap and hold, then drag it back to the home screen.

 

2. Enable the App (If Disabled)

Go to the Settings > Apps > All apps. 

Scroll to the missing app. 

If you see "Enable", tap it.

3. Restart Your Device

Sometimes a simple restart can refresh the system and bring icons back on phone.

  

4. Reset Home Screen Layout (Optional) 

If you use a custom launcher: 

Go to Launcher Settings and tap Reset Layout. 

On stock Android:

Try Settings > Apps > [Your Launcher] > Storage > Clear Data.

 Note: Clearing in launcher data will reset your home screen layout.

 

 5. Unhide Apps 

Long-press on the home screen > tap Home settings. 

Look for the Hidden apps. 

Unhide any app you want back on phone.

 

6. Reinstall the App 

If the app isn’t in the app drawer either, try reinstalling it from the Google Play Store.

 

 

Part 2: Fix for iOS (iPhone/iPad)

 

1. Use Spotlight Search

Swipe down on the home screen.

Type the app name.

If it shows up, it means the app is not deleted just hidden.

 

 

2. Check App Library 

Swipe left until you reach the App Library. 

Search for the missing app. 

Drag it from App Library to the Home Screen.

 

 

 3. Check Screen Time Restrictions

Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps. 

Make sure the app is the allowed.

 

4. Reset Home Screen Layout 

Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Home Screen Layout.

 Note: This resets all icons to the default positions.

 

5. Reinstall the App

If the app was deleted, go to the App Store, search for it, and reinstall.

 

Extra Tips for Both Devices

Update your android phone or OS to fix possible bugs.

Avoid the third-party launchers if they cause layout issues. 

Backup your layout (Android) using launchers like Nova before resetting.

 

Final lines

Missing app icons can be annoying, but with the easy steps, you can quickly restore your home screen and get back to normal. If all else fails, a factory reset is a last option but usually not necessary.