What is Kiosk Mode?

When computing devices are used in business environments, they can provide a purpose-specific mode for doing a particular task without any interventions. This can improve the business efficiency and decrease operational costs. Kiosk mode allows you to easily lock a device to a single application of your choice. This way, the user cannot modify the system settings in any way. It prevents misuse of devices used by employees or field workers. Usually, kiosk mode is available for most of the operating systems including Window, Android and Linux.

Common Kiosk Mode Applications

Kiosk mode is usually applied to a single-use scenario.

1. Self-service kiosks: In self-service kiosk applications, kiosk mode allows you to lock a screen to a dedicated application for ordering, payment or other uses in restaurants or supermarkets.
2. Information kiosks: Government agency information and navigation kiosks in museums or hospitals.
3. Advertisement kiosks: Public places, retail shops, department stores for advertising or facial recognition.
4. Application-focused tablet computer: Tablet computers that are specifically used for delivery, navigation or other applications based on the business needs.
5. Vehicle mounted computers: Truck, forklift and heavy-duty vehicle navigation or inventory control.

Why Kiosk Mode?

First of all, in industrial and enterprise applications, safety is the primary concern. In terms of cyber security, kiosk mode helps to increase the security of devices and data. It blocks any actions of using the device for a different purpose. Accessing any unsecured websites or apps can be dangerous for corporate data and devices. With limited device functionality, kiosk mode increases security, keeping potential threats and viruses out of the system.

The second advantage is simple user interface that not only prevents distractions but decreases the learning time for new users. It is also reduces time and cost of support, as employees cannot use corporate devices for personal needs.

From the developer’s side, running only a single application can help simplify hardware specifications to reduce costs. Faster boot time allows developers to lower OS component requirements and increase the CP value of the unit for businesses.

Winmate allows you to easily lock your device to only one application selected by the system administrator. It works by replacing the default home screen with a customizable launcher screen. The application is available on HMI devices, vehicle mounted computers, rugged tablet computers and handhelds.