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Configuring Android Kiosk Mode

Create kiosk mode to lock Android devices.

Prerequisites

  • Required permissions: Kiosk management access

  • Time estimate: 5-10 minutes

  • Device requirements: Enrolled Android devices

Before You Start

Kiosk Mode is a comprehensive lockdown framework that allows administrators to restrict a device to a specific, purpose-driven environment. Depending on your business needs, you can configure Trio to lock a device into a Single-App, Multi-App, or Digital Signage display.

  • Impact: Devices using this kiosk will be restricted to the selected application(s) only. Users cannot exit to the home screen or access other apps without meeting configured exit conditions.

  • Preparation: Ensure target applications are added to your Trio App Library and pushed to the devices before applying the Kiosk policy.


Step 1: Access Kiosk & Configure Basic Settings

  1. Navigate to Fleet > Policy Management > Kiosk mode.

  2. Click the Create button.

  3. Enter a name in the Kiosk name field.

  4. Add an explanation in the Description (Optional) field.

  5. Select the Android platform.


Step 2: Select Kiosk Mode

Select the mode you want to apply: Single-App, Multi-App, or Digital Signage.

Note: Digital Signage is only available on devices that are not enrolled via Android Enterprise Dedicated Device mode.


Step 3: Add Applications & Files

Choose between the Application or File shortcut tabs:

  • Application: Select from your Android app library. Use the search bar and filters (Name, Category, Source) to find specific apps.

  • File shortcut: Use the Add file button to upload PDF documents or video files. These appear as icons on the Kiosk launcher.

    • Note: Supported only on Non-Android Enterprise (Legacy) dedicated device mode.

  • Background Apps: Use this for apps that must run silently to support your main kiosk app (e.g., adding the Dialer app so a CRM kiosk can make calls). Background apps stay hidden from the home screen.

Step 3b: Media & Content (Digital Signage Only)

When configuring Digital Signage, apps are replaced by a Media Playlist.

1. Uploading & Organizing Media

  • Add Media: Click + Add to upload or select images (JPG, PNG) and videos (MP4).

  • Reorder Items: Use the Drag Handle (=) to change the playback loop order.

  • Manage Files: Use the three-dot menu to remove or preview content.

2. Default Settings for All Media

  • Image Playback: Set Fit to full screen, define Loop & Duration, and choose Transitions (e.g., Fade, Slide).

  • Video Playback: Configure global rules for looping, volume, and trimming.

  • Display Behavior: Lock brightness and use "always-on" configurations for 24/7 playback.


Step 4: Customize Behavior & Access

Note on Compatibility: Features vary between enrollment methods. Every option features an Info Icon (ⓘ); click it to verify support for your enrollment type.

Exit Kiosk Mode

  • Kiosk exit password: Define the password required to exit the kiosk locally on the device.

  • Number of taps: Specify how many consecutive taps trigger the password prompt (e.g., 10 taps to prevent accidental pop-ups).

  • App catalog access: Enable this to allow users to install other approved apps via the Trio App Catalog while remaining locked in the kiosk.

Single-App Mode Specifics

  • Exit gesture: Since there is no launcher, select a movement (e.g., Swipe toward the center from bottom-right) to reveal the password field.

  • Run app all the time: Automatically relaunches the app if it crashes or the device reboots.

  • Delay app launch: Set a delay (0–300 seconds) to allow system services (like VPN) to initialize before the app starts.

Device Interaction Controls

  • System & Settings Access: Block or permit access to core device settings.

  • Network & Connectivity: Manage access to Wi-Fi, Hotspot, and Mobile Data.

  • Bluetooth Controls: Control pairing with peripherals like scanners or printers.

  • Screen & Display Controls: Manage screen timeout, brightness, and Screen Capture restrictions.

  • Navigation & System UI: Block system bars and gestures to prevent users from "escaping" the kiosk.

  • Hardware Button Controls: Disable physical keys like Volume, Power, or Factory Reset.


Step 5: Appearance

Note: These features are specifically for Android Non-Enterprise enrollments.

  1. Home Screen Layout: Toggle Hide app labels or adjust Icon size (Small, Medium, Large).

  2. Branding & Colors: Enable Show top bar, enter a Brand name, upload a Brand logo, and set the Top bar color via hex code.

  3. Wallpaper & Background: Upload a Custom wallpaper and set the App icon label color to ensure readability.

  4. Lock Screen Behavior: Toggle Enable lock screen to apply a branded entry screen.


Step 6: Assignment

  1. Click Create Kiosk to save the policy.

  2. Group Assignment (Recommended): Assign the policy to Device Groups for automatic deployment to all matched devices.

  3. Specific Device Assignment: Assign via the Device Detail page for individual testing.


Troubleshooting

  • Configuration not saving: Ensure all required fields are complete and check your network connection.

  • Apps not displaying in library: Verify the apps are added to Software Management and you have the correct permissions.

  • File uploads failing: Ensure files are PDF or MP4 format and check that they do not exceed size limits (recommended under 100MB for stability)

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