Using Android Kiosk Mode: Settings with MobiVisor MDM
In practice, kiosk mode is used in a wide variety of scenarios. The following article explains the settings available for Android devices using MobiVisor’s kiosk mode.
Last Update: 06 Oktober 2026 | Author: Saskia Riechers
What is Android Kiosk Mode?
Android Kiosk Mode is a special setting that allows companies to restrict smartphones and tablets to just a few specific apps and settings.
This is particularly relevant when devices are intended solely for work purposes (COBO) and are used for specific tasks.
Typical real-world examples of Kiosk Mode in use include ordering terminals, point-of-sale devices, handheld scanners, and tablets used in medical practices and hospitals. You can find out more about Android Kiosk Mode and its use cases in our article, “What is Android Kiosk Mode?”
What are the requirements for Android Kiosk Mode?
Kiosk mode is a setting that can only be used on work devices.
To use kiosk mode, the following conditions must also be met:
- Applicable only to devices running Android OS
- Device operating system: Android 9.0 or higher
- Device must be registered as COBO (Company Owned, Business Only)
To properly set up the mobile devices, you should also use an MDM (Mobile Device Management) system. This allows you to organize the devices you wish to place in kiosk mode into appropriate groups containing the desired apps.
Once configured, kiosk mode will display only those apps that are installed on the device and have been added to the kiosk mode setup.
Kiosk mode or single-app mode?
In principle, both options are available on Android devices. However, Single App Mode is configured differently and can be used on Apple devices (iPhone and iPad) in addition to Android devices, depending on the intended use case.
Single-App Mode for iOS devices:
- Adding the iOS app package name
- Disabling the touchscreen, volume buttons, call button, screen rotation, sleep/wake button, and auto-lock
- Enabling VoiceOver, Speak Selection, Zoom, AssistiveTouch, or Mono Audio
Single App Mode for iOS devices can be used for both dedicated business devices and BYOD devices registered via Apple DEP.
On dedicated DEP devices, the app can be installed via VPP. On BYOD devices, the end user must confirm the app installation.
Single-App mode for Android devices:
- Adding the Android Enterprise app package name
You will likely notice that we do not list any further policies for Android. This is because Android does not support “Single App Mode” in the same way that Apple devices do.
However, MobiVisor MDM still offers the option to pin an app; nevertheless, we recommend using Kiosk Mode and enabling only a single app to ensure correct configuration.
How do you set up Kiosk mode in an MDM?
Naturally, kiosk mode configuration varies across different MDM solutions. To understand the process, however, it is important to clarify a few universal terms:
- Kiosk mode: Describes the state of the device when it is running in kiosk mode.
- Kiosk profile: Refers to the settings configured to place the device into kiosk mode.
In principle, kiosk mode is configured separately and then applied to the devices via a policy.
How to create a kiosk profile in MobiVisor MDM
A new kiosk profile can be created via the “Kiosk Mode” policy tab.
Profile Information:
The following basic information is defined for each kiosk profile:
Name: The name under which the kiosk mode appears in the MobiVisor console.
Description: A description of the devices or usage scenarios for which the profile was created.
Kiosk Exit Password: Can be set by the administrator to allow the user to temporarily exit kiosk mode.
Kiosk Mode Title: The title displayed on the kiosk screen.
Query mappings: These can be used if dynamic or device-specific values are to be included in the kiosk title.
Allow Status Bar: Choose whether users should see the status bar (displaying time, notifications, or signal strength). This can prevent them from changing settings such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or airplane mode via the notification panel.
Allow Lock Screen: Choose whether users are permitted to use an existing lock screen. You can also configure a lock screen via MobiVisor.
Select allowed apps
When creating a kiosk profile, the applications that users are permitted to access are selected based on their package names.
For example, the following types of applications can be added to the profile:
- Enterprise messaging apps
- Secure browsers
- File management apps
- Camera or QR code scanner apps
- Map and navigation apps
- Custom Android apps developed by the organization
Only apps that are actually required for the business process should be included in the kiosk list. Removing unnecessary applications simplifies the user interface and reduces the risk of misuse.
Auto-Start Application:
This function allows you to select an app that opens automatically after the device starts up. To do this, the app must first be added to kiosk mode. This feature is particularly useful when you want to save time while preparing to start work—for example, in the hospitality industry.
Device Owner Kiosk in MobiVisor
MobiVisor offers additional kiosk functions for Android devices managed in “Device Owner” mode (COBO). Management in “Device Owner” mode enables companies to enforce more comprehensive policies for their devices.
Allow Overview Button:
This setting controls access to the Android Overview or the “Recent Apps” button. If this option is disabled, users cannot open the “Recent Apps” screen or navigate to screens outside the permitted kiosk applications.
Allow Notifications:
This setting determines whether users can view notifications. Disabling access to notifications can prevent message content from being displayed and stop users from navigating out of the kiosk environment via the status bar.
Allow System App Services:
This option controls whether specific Android system applications and services can be used while the device is in kiosk mode.
System apps refer to pre-installed applications provided by the operating system, such as the camera, gallery, or phone. If system apps are disabled, these standard apps may not run. You should enable this function if you wish to access standard apps while in kiosk mode.
Allow Wi-Fi Settings:
This option allows users to open the Android Wi-Fi settings. If users should not be permitted to modify corporate network settings, this option can remain disabled. If you have defined multiple secure Wi-Fi connections for your company, you can leave the Wi-Fi settings accessible in kiosk mode, enabling users to connect to a Wi-Fi network on their own.
Allow Bluetooth Settings:
This setting controls access to the Bluetooth settings. If a kiosk device uses a barcode scanner, printer, keyboard, or other Bluetooth device, this option should be configured according to the use case.
Allow NFC Settings:
This setting determines whether users can access NFC settings. Enabling this setting can be useful for tasks involving reading contactless cards or using NFC tags. Additionally, you can configure further NFC settings via policy.
Allow Mobile Network Settings:
This option controls access to mobile data and mobile network settings. On devices using corporate SIM cards, this area may be restricted to prevent end users from changing the network configuration.
Samsung Kiosk Mode Settings:
Samsung Kiosk Mode is a specialized kiosk mode that runs exclusively on Samsung devices. However, Samsung no longer supports this feature. While older Samsung devices may still display the kiosk mode, issues can arise when attempting to modify or remove it.
Devices running Android 16 or later do not support Samsung Kiosk Mode; if applied to these devices, the device simply remains in its standard state. Nevertheless, since many of our customers use devices that do not yet run Android 16, we have included the Samsung Kiosk Mode features here for reference.
Force Device Owner Kiosk:
Samsung devices implement Samsung Kiosk Mode by default. However, companies that did not wish to use this could already employ MobiVisor’s own device-owner kiosk mode.
Allow Navigation Bar:
This setting controls whether the Android navigation bar is displayed. If the navigation bar is disabled, users cannot use the Back, Home, and Recent Apps buttons.
Allow Multi Window Mode:
This setting controls access to Samsung’s Multi-Window feature. The Multi-Window feature allows multiple apps to be used side-by-side. If the kiosk application should not share the screen with other applications, Multi-Window mode can be disabled.
Allow Task Manager:
This option controls access to the Samsung Task Manager. The Task Manager allows users to view recently opened apps by swiping up from the bottom of the screen or by tapping the button (three lines or a square). If the Task Manager is disabled, this function can no longer be performed. This setting can be used to prevent users from terminating running processes.
Allow Air Command Mode:
This option controls access to the Air Command menu on supported S Pen devices. By default, the Air Command menu opens on Samsung devices when the user hovers the S Pen over the screen—for example, to write a quick note.
Allow Air View Mode:
With Samsung “Air View,” users can preview content without touching the screen. To do so, they simply need to hover their finger or the S Pen over the screen. If “Air View” is disabled, this function cannot be used in Kiosk Mode.
Allow Edge Functions:
The Edge Panel refers to specific features located along the edge of the Samsung device—such as App Pairs/split-screen, shortcuts for contacts and calls, Smart Select, and much more. If the Edge features are disabled, the user can no longer utilize them.
Create app shortcuts
The “App Shortcuts” section in a MobiVisor kiosk profile can be used to create shortcuts that provide direct access to specific application screens or Android activities.
For each app shortcut, the following details are defined:
Shortcut Name: The name of the shortcut as it should appear in kiosk mode.
Package Name: The package name of the app associated with the shortcut. You can look up the package name via the Google Play Store.
Activity Details: The activity or target information for the specific screen to be opened within the application.
This feature allows users to access a specific settings screen directly, rather than opening the entire Android Settings app. For example, a company might want to provide access to Wi-Fi settings; to save the user from having to search for them within the Settings app, an activity can be configured to open the Wi-Fi settings directly. Activity names may vary depending on the Android version and device manufacturer. For standard Android apps, this information can be found via a Google search. For other apps, it may be best to contact the app developer directly to obtain the correct activity identifiers.
What should be considered when creating a kiosk profile?
Before placing devices in kiosk mode, companies should clarify their objectives: Which apps are required, and what restrictions need to be implemented?
Striking a balance between security and usability is crucial. If devices are overly restricted, losing the internet connection could render them unreachable via MDM. Conversely, granting users too many privileges might lead to device misuse or employees bypassing security measures.
Kiosk mode is generally best suited for companies intending to use mobile devices strictly as work tools. Restricting devices via kiosk mode can also significantly reduce administrative overhead:
Since only authorized apps are displayed—excluding the Play Store, for instance—users cannot install or use unauthorized applications. This eliminates the need for measures such as blacklisting. In practice, many of our customers supplement kiosk mode with a Wi-Fi configuration to prevent the use of insecure Wi-Fi connections. However, Wi-Fi settings do not necessarily have to be blocked in kiosk mode; keeping them accessible allows users to manually connect to a network if needed.
If companies wish to utilize system apps—such as the camera, gallery, or phone—these must also be included in the app selection. We also recommend enabling the “System App Services” function to ensure these apps operate correctly.
What are the benefits of the MobiVisor kiosk mode?
MobiVisor MDM does not rely solely on the capabilities provided by device manufacturers when implementing kiosk mode. Instead, we have developed a unique “Device Owner Kiosk” feature that allows devices to be configured in a way that balances ease of use and functionality with security. Highly customized settings can be implemented within the MobiVisor Device Owner Kiosk mode; combined with a wide range of policies, this ensures comprehensive device protection.
A key advantage is the ability to create multiple kiosk modes. Each group can be assigned specific devices, restrictions, and presets. It is even possible to create a dedicated kiosk mode for individual users. This is particularly useful when, for example, six devices are available but need to serve different functions.
Devices can also be removed from kiosk mode via MDM at any time and repurposed. This allows devices to transition through different roles during their lifecycle without requiring a reset each time.
Conclusion:
With the right kiosk mode configuration, companies can transform “standard” mobile devices into genuine work tools. This eliminates the need to switch to specialized hardware; for instance, instead of purchasing expensive point-of-sale terminals, a smartphone equipped with the appropriate apps and a rugged case can handle payment transactions just as effectively. While this is just one example, it illustrates how kiosk mode can benefit businesses.
Setting up kiosk mode is remarkably simple—especially within MobiVisor MDM, which features an intuitive user interface and clearly explained configuration options. Kiosk mode enhances the control and security of corporate devices by restricting access to only those apps and functions required for specific workflows. At the same time, companies can determine which functions remain available for day-to-day use.
Would you like to know how to implement kiosk mode in your company? We would be happy to advise you!
FAQ
What is device owner kiosk mode?
The Device Owner Kiosk Mode is a special setting developed and provided by MobiVisor MDM. It replaces Samsung Kiosk Mode and is distinguished by its capability for custom configuration.
Can I configure single-app mode in MobiVisor?
Yes, that is possible. However, please note that single-app mode is primarily an iOS feature; consequently, there are no specific policies for it on Android devices.
Can I use multiple apps in kiosk mode?
Yes. You can add as many apps as you like. Just keep in mind that apps cannot be moved into folders while in kiosk mode.
Can I change Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings in kiosk mode?
These permissions can be managed separately via the kiosk profile. For devices in “Device Owner” mode, access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and mobile network settings can be enabled or restricted.
Can kiosk mode be used on personal devices (BYOD)?
On Android devices, the Kiosk mode can only be applied to business devices that are enrolled as Device Owner (COBO) devices.
Is the password for exiting kiosk mode stored in MobiVisor?
The password is stored in MobiVisor and can be changed by the admin at any time.
Can I have apps launch automatically in Android kiosk mode?
Yes, the “Auto-start app” feature allows you to select an app that launches automatically after the device starts up. The user does not need to open it manually.
What are app shortcuts used for?
App shortcuts can be used to launch a specific Android application or a particular activity screen within an application. This allows users to access the required screen directly without gaining access to the full system settings.
Saskia Riechers
Marketing & Customer Care Manager, IOTIQ
Saskia Riechers has been with IOTIQ since 2021 and, as Head of Marketing, oversees the company’s marketing activities. In addition to strategic and operational marketing work, she creates tutorials and content related to the MobiVisor product. Through direct interaction with customers, she also helps ensure MobiVisor is used effectively in daily operations and assists in finding solutions for specific requirements.
Marketing
Mobile device management
Customer Success