My client wants me to make the app permanently in kiosk mode so that it cannot be exited unless the device is rebooted. I’ve tried react-native npm packages that implement a kiosk mode but they simply do the app pinning feature which can easily be bypassed by pressing the home and power button at the same time.
I want to know if such is a permanent locking feature is even possible? If not can someone kindly confirm so I may let my client know. If there are any solutions please do share.
I tried the react-native-kiosk and react-native-kiosk-mode and react-native-lock-task packages they all did the same thing. App pinning which could be bypassed.
Implementing a true permanent kiosk mode on Android can be a challenge, especially when using React Native, as the platform doesn’t inherently provide full access to lower-level device management features. Here are some important considerations:
1. Kiosk Mode Overview
Android does offer a “kiosk mode” via Device Owner and Managed Device features, typically utilized in enterprise settings. This mode can restrict the device to a single app, preventing users from exiting it without a device reboot.
2. Device Owner Mode
To implement true kiosk mode, you’ll generally need to:
Set the device as a Device Owner. This usually requires an NFC bump or a factory reset to establish the app as the owner.
Use the Device Administration API to lock the app in kiosk mode.
3. React Native Limitations
The existing React Native packages (like react-native-kiosk and react-native-lock-task) primarily utilize app pinning, which is not secure against bypassing methods like the home button.
4. Possible Solutions
Native Code Implementation: To achieve true kiosk mode, consider writing custom native modules in Java/Kotlin (for Android) to manage device policies directly. This could allow you to enforce kiosk mode more robustly.
Third-party Solutions: There are enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions (like VMware, Microsoft Intune) that can enforce kiosk mode without user bypassing.
Custom Launcher: Create a custom launcher app that acts as a kiosk, effectively locking the user into a specified app interface.
5. Limitations & Considerations
User Experience: Users won’t have access to the usual Android features, which may cause issues.
Device Compatibility: Not all devices support device owner mode, especially if they are not designed for enterprise use.
Testing: Always test extensively on target devices, as behavior can differ between Android versions.