How to Put an iPad into Kiosk Mode for a Single App

Whether you're setting up a retail display, monitoring a check-in system, or conducting surveys, turning your iPad into a dedicated kiosk device is a no-brainer. This process involves locking the device into a single app, thereby ensuring users are only interacting with the designated application. Let's explore your options and the best methods available.

Using Apple's Built-In Guided Access Mode

If you need a quick and free solution, Apple's Guided Access feature is your go-to tool. This built-in feature allows you to lock the iPad into a single app, preventing users from accessing other features or apps.

How It Works

Lock the iPad into a single app and prevent users from accessing other features or apps.

Enabling Guided Access

Open the app you want to lock the iPad into. Go to Settings Accessibility Guided Access. Turn it on and set a passcode to secure Guided Access. Triple-click the Home or Power button (depending on the iPad model) to activate Guided Access while in the app. Adjust settings like disabling touch on certain parts of the screen and start the session.

Limitations of Guided Access include its short-term use, lack of remote management, and the need to re-enable it manually after a device restart.

Using a Professional Solution Like VantageMDM

For businesses or large-scale deployments, VantageMDM is the gold standard for iPad kiosk management. This professional solution offers advanced features like remote management, multi-app kiosk setup, and enhanced security.

What VantageMDM Can Do

Lock the iPad into Single App Mode or a custom group of apps for a multi-app kiosk.

Remote configuration to manage kiosk settings without physical access.

Disable hardware buttons like volume or power to prevent tampering.

Customize the interface with branding wallpapers or instructions for users.

Setting Up with VantageMDM

Enroll the iPad into VantageMDM. Create a kiosk policy within the VantageMDM dashboard. Assign the app or apps you want to lock the device into. Deploy the policy to the iPad remotely.

Combining Apple Configurator with MDM for Advanced Needs

For organizations that already use Apple’s device management ecosystem, Apple Configurator can be combined with MDM solutions like VantageMDM to enable kiosk mode with even more control.

Advantages of This Approach

Bulk setup for multiple iPads.

Remote management and updates.

Seamless integration with existing workflows.

Choosing the Right Solution

For simple needs, Guided Access is perfect for one-off or small-scale use cases. For professional use, VantageMDM is the ideal choice if you require scalability, remote control, and advanced customization.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can lock an iPad into kiosk mode for a single app, and the method you choose depends on your specific requirements. Apple’s Guided Access is a quick and easy solution, but if you want professional features, remote management, and branding options, VantageMDM is the way to go.