Putting an iPad in kiosk mode is a great way to lock down the device to a single app, ensuring users can only interact with that app. This is useful for businesses, museums, or any public-facing scenario where you need to control what people can access. Follow these steps to easily set up kiosk mode on your iPad and keep it secure.
How to Put iPad in Kiosk Mode
The following steps will help you enable kiosk mode on your iPad, locking it into a single app so users can’t exit without a passcode.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the “Settings” app on your iPad.
In the Settings app, you can adjust various configurations of your iPad, including setting up Guided Access, which is what we’ll use for kiosk mode.
Step 2: Access Accessibility Settings
Go to the “Accessibility” section in the Settings menu.
The Accessibility settings offer a range of options designed to make the iPad easier to use for everyone, including Guided Access.
Step 3: Enable Guided Access
Scroll down and tap on “Guided Access,” then toggle it on.
Guided Access is a feature that limits your iPad to a single app and allows you to control which features are available. You’ll be setting this up next.
Step 4: Set a Passcode
Tap on “Passcode Settings” and set a passcode.
Choose a passcode you’ll remember but is hard for others to guess. This passcode will be used to exit Guided Access mode.
Step 5: Launch the Desired App
Open the app you want to lock your iPad into.
This app will be the only one users can interact with while the iPad is in kiosk mode.
Step 6: Start Guided Access
Triple-click the Home button (or Side button for newer models) to start Guided Access.
A screen will appear allowing you to start Guided Access. You can also adjust settings like disabling certain areas of the screen or hardware buttons.
Step 7: Finalize Settings
Tap “Start” in the upper-right corner to activate Guided Access.
Your iPad is now in kiosk mode, locked to the app you selected. Users will be unable to exit without the passcode.
After completing these steps, your iPad will be in kiosk mode. Anyone using the device will only be able to interact with the selected app, keeping everything else secure.
Tips for Putting iPad in Kiosk Mode
- Make sure to disable hardware buttons if you don’t want users to change volume or turn off the device.
- Always test the kiosk mode setup before putting the iPad in a public space.
- Use the “Time Limits” feature in Guided Access to set usage times.
- Regularly update the app to ensure it runs smoothly in kiosk mode.
- Consider using a kiosk enclosure for added physical security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I forget the passcode?
If you forget the passcode, you’ll need to restart the iPad and use your device passcode to exit Guided Access.
Can I use any app in kiosk mode?
Yes, any app can be used in kiosk mode. Just open the app before starting Guided Access.
Can I disable certain touch areas on the screen?
Yes, you can disable specific areas by circling them on the screen when setting up Guided Access.
Will Guided Access work on all iPad models?
Guided Access works on any iPad running iOS 6 or later.
Can I exit Guided Access without the passcode?
No, you must enter the passcode to exit Guided Access mode.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Access Accessibility Settings
- Enable Guided Access
- Set a Passcode
- Launch the Desired App
- Start Guided Access
- Finalize Settings
Conclusion
Putting an iPad in kiosk mode is a simple yet effective way to control the user experience on your device. Whether you need it for a business, educational setting, or any other public use, following these steps ensures your iPad is secure and only used as intended. Guided Access not only locks the iPad into a single app but also offers additional customization options to tailor the experience exactly how you want it.
With these instructions, you should be able to set up and manage kiosk mode effectively. If you found this guide helpful, make sure to share it with others who might benefit from learning how to put an iPad in kiosk mode. And remember, regular updates and testing are key to maintaining a smooth and secure kiosk experience.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.