(even if they’re not kiosks)
Kiosk mode is a powerful tool that locks devices to a single application or interface. Despite the name, it’s not just for kiosks — it’s useful on every purpose-built device, like point of sale systems, digital signage, self-checkout or ordering stations, check-in tablets, and more.
And kiosks, of course.
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Kiosk mode locks down devices to a single application or interface, preventing other uses. It’s a way for organizations to not only keep their devices more secure but ensure the experience for the end user is exactly as intended.
Kiosk mode is a robust, secure option for locking down devices. But it isn’t a native feature found in most operating systems — it requires dedicated kiosk software. Android and iOS both have kiosk-like features in their App Pinning and Guided Access features, but for full control of mobile operating systems, kiosk mode software is a must.
Specific configurations vary, but the best Android kiosk software providers will offer some combination of the following:
Kiosk mode has a number of benefits that can extend device lifespans, reduce costs, and ultimately simplify your dedicated devices.
Increase security: Since you can easily limit access to nearly all aspects of a device’s core operating system, kiosk mode inherently increases device security.
Streamline the user experience: You know the experience that you want end users to have, and with kiosk mode, you can ensure that’s the experience they get. Plain and simple.
Lower maintenance costs: When a device is fully locked down, it helps prevent misconfiguration, harmful app installation, and other issues associated with “tinkering.”
Increased productivity: By limiting devices to only the necessary functions, you can eliminate distractions.
Not all kiosk modes are created equal, and Esper’s is proof. One of the issues we had to solve was a determined user’s ability to bypass traditional kiosk modes, which is possible on most GMS Android devices. We wanted to build a truly unbreakable, unpassable kiosk solution, which is only possible using AOSP Android. When companies are using your devices in big trucks and prisons, you have to make sure that it’s impossible to get around.
So that’s what we did. With Esper’s hardened kiosk mode, we pin the app to the screen using the Esper Agent, which is uninstallable by default. However, if a user was somehow able to figure out how to remove the Esper Agent, the device would cease to function. It won’t even boot without the Agent.
So yeah, unbreakable.
Not all kiosk modes are created equal, and Esper’s is proof. One of the issues we had to solve was a determined user’s ability to bypass traditional kiosk modes, which is possible on most GMS Android devices. We wanted to build a truly unbreakable, unpassable kiosk solution, which is only possible using AOSP Android. When companies are using your devices in big trucks and prisons, you have to make sure that it’s impossible to get around.
So that’s what we did. With Esper’s hardened kiosk mode, we pin the app to the screen using the Esper Agent, which is uninstallable by default. However, if a user was somehow able to figure out how to remove the Esper Agent, the device would cease to function. It won’t even boot without the Agent.
So yeah, unbreakable.
Spire Health uses remote control to debug issues on their patients’ devices, enabling them to help non-tech-savvy users without needing to be in the same room.
Teach for India uses remote access so teachers can see what students are working on and help them with assignments. Remote control also comes in handy for device troubleshooting.
Quick service restaurant chains use remote control so they don’t have to send an IT tech out to the field. What used to take days to fix can now be done in hours or even minutes, saving significant time and money.
Kiosk mode locks a device to a single application or a selected list of applications while preventing other uses or tampering.
Yes. Android app pinning can provide a very limited Android kiosk mode, but without key security and management features.
Screen pinning doesn't require an MDM. For a more robust and secure kiosk mode, however, you'll need a kiosk mode provider like an MDM.
App pinning needs to be enabled in Settings. After that, you can swipe up to show recent apps, long press on the app, and select Pin. For more information, check out our full guide on how to use app pinning.
Yes! Nearly any Android device with a touchscreen can be run in kiosk mode.
For kiosks using app pinning, simply swipe up and hold (you may also need to enter the PIN, pattern, password, or biometric authentication). For apps placed into kiosk mode using kiosk software, only an administrator can exit kiosk mode.
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