Kiosk Mode locks down a device to a single app, preventing other uses. The simplest (but least secure) way to do this is by using a very basic Android feature called app pinning. App pinning does exactly what the name suggests: it pins a single app to the screen. This app can even be locked to the screen behind the PIN, pattern, or password that secures the device, preventing users from bypassing it.
But app pinning isn’t designed to be used in a dedicated device setting. If you’re a business owner with a single tablet used as a POS terminal, then perhaps app pinning might be enough. But if you have multiple devices or need additional functionality (including enhanced security), you need a dedicated kiosk mode provider like an MDM (mobile device management). MDM software provides basic security and management tools for kiosk devices (and more).
Specific configurations can vary, but almost every Android kiosk mode limits user access to apps, status bar, screen rotation lock, and device settings. If single app kiosk mode is enabled, the user will be limited to running one app at all times. If multi-app kiosk mode is enabled, they will be able to run apps only from a specific selection chosen by the device owner.
When kiosk mode is enabled on Android, there are three things you want to know: the display’s sleep mode can be disabled, apps will be forced into full screen mode (regardless of whether it’s a single app or in multi-app mode), and kiosk mode will launch every time the device powers on. While you can work to make sure this all happens manually, proper kiosk mode software makes this step automatic.
Any good kiosk mode will also offer orientation lock or screen rotation lock controls. This will prevent the screen from rotating the app if the device itself is rotated so you can ensure the optimal experience is always offered. You will be able to choose which orientation the screen is locked to, as well — portrait orientation lock will keep the app fixed in the portrait position, while landscape orientation lock will do the same for landscape mode.
If simple app pinning isn’t good enough for your use case, you need a hardened kiosk mode solution. Esper offers full stack device management software that allows you to fully lock down your devices in a way that’s virtually impossible to bypass. Learn more about Esper's MDM solution with our robust kiosk mode feature here: [ Ссылка ]
