Samsung Galaxy phones do not have a simple app lock feature comparable to the iPhone's Require Face ID. Instead, the company offers two separate tools: Secure Folder and app pinning. Each serves a different purpose, and neither is a direct copy of Apple's approach.
Secure Folder, built on Samsung Knox, creates an encrypted, separate space where apps run as isolated copies with their own data and sign-ins. It is the stronger option for banking, private photos, and other sensitive content, but it requires more setup. Users can also hide the folder icon for extra discretion.
App pinning is a faster, lighter alternative for temporary restrictions, such as keeping a child inside a single game. It does not encrypt anything and is not suitable for financial or private apps. The source notes that pinning works best for kids who cannot read yet, since on-screen unpin instructions are visible.
The article explains that Samsung phased out a basic app lock option in favor of Secure Folder, and there has been user pushback over the years. For quick, low-stakes restrictions, pinning is recommended; for real protection, Secure Folder is the way to go.