How to Lock Android Devices in Single App Mode?

When employees or customers have full access to a device, things can quickly get off track. Apps not meant for work, accidental setting changes, or even security risks can reduce the value of using mobile devices in business.

That is why locking down devices into Single App Mode has become a necessity. It keeps the device focused on one task and prevents unwanted usage.

Many organizations use Android Single App Mode also called Single App Kiosk Mode to lock devices to just one app. It blocks access to everything else, making sure the device is used exactly as intended.

This setup is especially useful for delivery drivers using navigation apps, customers using self-service kiosks, or students learning on tablets. With single application mode Android, devices become purpose-driven tools instead of general-use gadgets.

In this blog, we will explain how to set up single app mode Android, why it matters, and how to lock Android devices in single app kiosk mode.

What is Android Single App Kiosk Mode?

Android Single App Kiosk Mode is a lockdown feature that restricts an Android device to run only one specific application at all times. Once enabled, the device boots directly into that app even after a restart and blocks access to other apps, settings, and system features.

The single application mode of Android ensures that the device is used only for its intended task, making it ideal for self-service kiosks, field devices, digital signage, and more. By enabling single app mode Android, businesses can reduce distractions, prevent unauthorized use, and keep the device focused on a single function at all times.

How Does Android Single Application Mode Work?

Android Single Application Mode works by modifying system-level behaviors to restrict the device’s operation to a single, predefined app. When this mode is activated, the Android OS suppresses user access to system UI elements such as the home button, app switcher, notification bar, and settings menu.

At the backend, the system launches the selected app automatically, either during device boot or after a timeout and overrides user input that would normally exit the app. Even if the device is restarted, it relaunches directly into the same app, maintaining its locked-down state.

To enforce single app mode Android, administrators typically configure a set of policies that:

• Block background processes or unauthorized apps from launching.
• Disable hardware buttons like volume, back, or power (in supported devices)
• Prevent access to connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB.
• Hide or disable the status bar, keyboard, and gesture navigation.

This ensures that the device remains locked to the intended app without manual intervention or risk of tampering.

The logic behind single application mode in Android is to create a controlled environment that supports a very specific business use, whether it is scanning inventory, displaying product catalogs, or collecting visitor data. It converts the device into a single-purpose terminal while maintaining system stability and enforcing security policies in the background.

What are the Benefits of Single Application Mode for Android?

Locking an Android device to a single app has many advantages, especially for businesses that want better control over how their devices are used. Here’s why Android Single App Mode is useful:

1. Keeps the device focused on one task

When the device is locked into one app, users can’t open anything else. This is helpful for work-related tasks where distractions can slow things down.

2. Reduces misuse or tampering

With Android single app mode, users can’t access settings, browse the internet, or install other apps. It helps prevent accidental or intentional misuse.

3. Less support needed

Since users can’t change anything outside the app, IT teams don’t have to worry about fixing settings or troubleshooting as often.

4. Same experience every time

Whether it is for a check-in kiosk, a delivery app, or a feedback form, Android single app kiosk mode ensures that every device looks and works the same way.

5. Works well in shared or public spaces

Devices used by multiple people or placed in public stay locked to one app, no matter who is using it. This helps in places like retail stores, hospitals, or warehouses.

Industry Use Cases for Android Single App Mode

Android Single App Mode is widely adopted across industries where dedicated, task-specific device usage is critical. Locking devices into a single app not only enhances the user experience but also ensures better control, reduced misuse, and easier maintenance. Here are some real-world examples:

1. Restaurant Ordering Kiosks

Restaurants often use tablets for self-ordering at tables or counters. By enabling Android single app kiosk mode, the tablet runs only the menu or ordering app, preventing customers from accessing other apps or settings.

This setup offers two major benefits:

• Prevents misuse of the device, reducing IT support and maintenance.

• Enhances customer experience through a focused, interactive interface.

It also helps the restaurant’s branding by keeping the customer engaged with their digital menu throughout the experience.

2. Display Kiosks in Retail Stores

In retail stores, Android devices are used in an intuitive manner. The table displays information about the products and discounts available online through the browser by setting the browser in kiosk mode.

Benefits include:

• Educates customers about ongoing offers and new stock.
• Keeps the interface clean and distraction-free.
• Ensures devices serve only their intended role, reducing operational risk.

3. Interactive Kiosks in Amusement Parks and Museums

Parks, museums, and other public venues often install interactive kiosks that show maps, ticket prices, schedules, or gather visitor feedback. Using Android single app mode, these devices run only the assigned application and block access to anything else.

This leads to:

• Reduced IT maintenance and downtime.
• A better and faster experience for visitors.
• Lower chances of tampering with device settings.

4. Information Kiosks at Government Institutes

Public-facing government offices often use tablets to display information, guide citizens, or collect digital forms. Running the devices in Android single app kiosk mode ensures people stay focused on the task or information at hand.

Key advantages:

• Offers a professional, consistent interface for public services.
• Helps deliver accurate, easy-to-navigate public information.
• Prevents distractions or unauthorized use.

How to Enable Single App Mode on Android Tablets or Phones?

There are a few different ways to enable Single App Mode on Android devices, depending on your use case, level of control needed, and technical expertise. Here are three common methods:

1. Use Built-in Settings (App Pinning)

App Pinning is a basic version of single application mode Android available in most Android devices running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and above. It lets you “pin” an app to the screen, preventing users from switching to other apps.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Security (or Security & Location).
2. Tap on Screen Pinning or App Pinning.
3. Turn it ON.
4. Open the app you want to lock.
5. Tap the Overview (Recent Apps) button and swipe up.
6. Tap the Pin icon on the app’s card.

Limitations:

• Users can unpin the app by pressing the back and overview buttons together.
• Not suitable for unattended or large-scale deployments.
• Doesn’t block access to system settings.

2. Use Android APIs or Custom ROMs

Developers can use Android’s Lock Task Mode API (introduced in Android 5.0+) to programmatically enable Android single app kiosk mode. Some companies also use custom ROMs to deeply control the device behavior beyond what stock Android allows.

Steps using Lock Task API:

1. Build a custom Android app and assign it as a Device Owner using Android Enterprise.
2. Use the startLockTask method in your app to enter kiosk mode.
3. Set your app to launch automatically on boot.
4. Block user navigation and status bar access via code or policies.

Using Custom ROMs:

• Flash the device with a custom ROM that disables unwanted features and runs only one app at startup.
• Useful for deep control in highly specific use cases.

Limitations:

• Requires development skills and access to device admin tools.
• Not ideal for businesses without an in-house dev team.
• Risky if not tested thoroughly across devices.

3. Use a Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solution

An MDM lets IT admins remotely configure Android single app kiosk mode from a central dashboard, no need to touch each device manually.

Steps:

1. Enroll the device into your MDM platform.
2. Assign the device to a kiosk profile or policy.
3. Select the app you want to lock the device into.
4. Enable Single App Mode from the MDM console.
5. The device will now reboot into that app and block everything else.

Benefits:

• Ideal for large-scale deployments in retail, logistics, education, and field operations.
• Allows remote updates, monitoring, and support.
• Supports advanced restrictions like blocking USB, camera, Wi-Fi settings, etc.

Which is the best method to Lock Android Devices in Single App Mode?

While there are multiple ways to enable Android Single App Mode, using a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution stands out as the most efficient, secure, and scalable method especially for businesses managing multiple devices.

Unlike developer-based solutions or manual methods like App Pinning, an MDM doesn’t require any coding or technical setup on each device. IT admins can lock down hundreds (or thousands) of devices into Android single app mode from a single web-based dashboard saving time, effort, and reducing human error.

Here’s why using MDM is the best choice:

• No coding required: IT teams don’t need to build apps, use APIs, or flash ROMs.
• Remote management: Devices can be locked, updated, or reset remotely.
• Scalable: Perfect for organizations deploying Android tablets or phones in bulk.

Comparison Table: Methods to Enable Android Single App Mode

Take Control of Your Android Device’s Security with Scalefusion

Whether you are managing customer-facing kiosks, field devices, or employee tablets, locking Android devices into Single App Mode is one of the most effective ways to ensure security, focus, and consistent performance. With Scalefusion, you can set up and manage Android single-app kiosk mode across thousands of devices remotely, securely, and without any coding.

Take the next step toward better control and security with Scalefusion. Book a free demo or start your 14-day trial today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the advantages of using Single Application Mode? 

Android Single App Mode offers several benefits, including enhancing focus by limiting access to a single app, improving security by restricting unauthorized usage of other apps, and optimizing the device for specific tasks like kiosks or point-of-sale systems. This mode is ideal for businesses and educational environments where a device needs to be locked down for a specific function.

2. Which devices support Single Application Mode?

Most Android smartphones and tablets support Single Application Mode, including devices running Android 5.0 Lollipop and later. To lock an Android tablet to one app or lock an Android phone to one app, you typically need to use Android’s built-in settings or third-party MDM solutions to configure Android tablet single app mode.

3. Is Single App Mode secure?

Yes, Single Application Mode is secure. It helps to lock Android to one app, reducing the risk of users accessing unauthorized apps or system settings. This is particularly useful when you need to lockdown Android tablet to one application in public or enterprise settings, ensuring that the device is used solely for its intended purpose.

4. How to lock Android tablet to one app?

To lock an Android tablet to one app, you can use Android Single Application Mode. This can be done by enabling Kiosk Mode through the device’s settings or using a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution. Go to Settings > Security > Screen Lock, then select Pin or Password. Next, under Advanced Settings, enable the option to lock Android tablet to one app. Alternatively, third-party MDM software can be used to lockdown Android tablet to one application and restrict access to other apps.