Kiosk Mode: Device Lockdown for Everything

Kiosk mode is a powerful tool that locks Android and iOS 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.

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What is Kiosk Mode?

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.

Kiosk mode

What Can You Do with Kiosk Mode?

Specific configurations vary, but the best kiosk software providers will offer some combination of the following:

Choose between single and multi app modes
Disable sleep mode
Disable access to notifications and settings
Control status bar and more on Android
Control screen orientation lock
Automatically launch kiosk mode when the device boots
Restrict calls and SMS

What is Kiosk Mode?

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.

Kiosk mode

The Benefits of Esper Kiosk Mode

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.

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Why Esper’s Kiosk Mode is Virtually 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.

No items found.
Try Esper for Free

Why Esper’s Kiosk Mode is Virtually 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. 

Read the case study.

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. 

Read the case study.

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.

Try remote control for free

Kiosk mode use cases by industry

Digital workout machines - A woman working out on a strength training machine.
Retail: Self-checkout kiosk
Digital workout machines - A woman working out on a strength training machine.
Restaurant: Ordering tablet on a table
Digital workout machines - A woman working out on a strength training machine.
Healthcare: Self check-in kiosk/tablet
Digital workout machines - A woman working out on a strength training machine.
Hospitality: In-room tablets
Digital workout machines - A woman working out on a strength training machine.
Logistics: In-truck tablet

No items found.
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Unlock the power of your device fleet

The necessity was the lockdown of devices. The icing on the cake is the granular control enabled by Esper

Dan Locke
Director of Safety & Compliance at Summit Trucking

KIOSK Mode is the best thing. Also in KIOSK mode, they are providing the compliance policy i believe that is the best things platform is providing which give us a good control.

Sandeep P
Team leader

Robust, Unbreakable, Fully Locked-Down Kiosk Mode

If you need to lock down your devices and don't want to worry about whether your MDM's kiosk mode can be easily bypassed, you need Esper's kiosk mode. Give it a shot today for free today.

FAQ

What is Kiosk Mode?

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.

Does Android Have a Built-In Kiosk Mode?

Yes. Android app pinning can provide a very limited Android kiosk mode, but without key security and management features.

Can I Use Android Kiosk Mode Without MDM?

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.

Can You Run an Android Tablet in Kiosk Mode?

Yes! Nearly any Android device with a touchscreen can be run in kiosk mode.

How Do I Get Out of 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.

Learn
Everything You Need to Know About MDM
Tech-first companies need a way to manage all of their digital devices — from tablets and smartphones to kiosks and point of sale systems. That’s where MDM comes in. But there’s no such thing as a one -size-fits-all MDM solution, and each device management scenario needs to be evaluated individually. That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of MDM and where each one excels. This is your guide to all that and more.
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