Using Kiosk Mode on iPad

Summary: This article guides you through the recommended iPad settings to prepare your device for use with our browser-based Kiosk Mode. Following these steps will enhance security, protect user data, and provide a smooth experience for your donors. We recommend using the Safari browser for this feature.


Before You Begin

  • You will need an iPad updated to a recent version of iPadOS.

  • You must have access to the device's main Settings app.

  • You will need the device passcode, if one is set.


Step 1: Enable Guided Access

Guided Access locks the iPad to a single app (Safari) and allows you to control which features are available, preventing users from exiting the kiosk.

  1. Open the Settings app.

  2. Tap Accessibility.

  3. Scroll down to the General section and tap on Guided Access.

  4. Toggle Guided Access to the On position.

  5. Tap Passcode Settings.

  6. Tap Set Guided Access Passcode and enter a 6-digit passcode known only to church admins. We recommend enabling Face ID or Touch ID as well for a quick way to exit Guided Access.

Step 2: Disable Safari AutoFill

This prevents the browser from saving and suggesting personal information like names, addresses, or credit cards, adding an extra layer of security.

  1. Open the Settings app.

  2. Scroll down and tap on Safari.

  3. In the General section, tap on AutoFill.

  4. Toggle Use Contact Info to the Off position.

  5. Toggle Credit Cards to the Off position.

Step 3: Disable Siri & Search Suggestions

This prevents Siri from learning from app usage and suggesting Kiosk Mode content outside of the app.

  1. Open the Settings app.

  2. Scroll down and tap on Safari.

  3. Tap on Siri & Search.

  4. Toggle all suggestions to the Off position.

Step 4: Disable Apple Pay

To prevent any possibility of your own payment methods being exposed, it's best to disable Apple Pay and remove cards from the device. Note: Removing cards only takes them off this specific iPad; it will not affect your Apple Wallet on other personal devices.

  1. Open the Settings app.

  2. Scroll down and tap on Wallet & Apple Pay.

  3. Toggle Apple Cash to the Off position.

  4. If any credit or debit cards are visible, tap on each one individually and follow the prompts to remove it from the device.

Step 5: Prevent the Screen from Auto-Locking

This ensures the kiosk screen stays active for your donors and does not lock after a period of inactivity.

  1. Open the Settings app.

  2. Tap Display & Brightness.

  3. Tap Auto-Lock.

  4. Select Never.


Troubleshooting & FAQs

  • What do I do if I forget my Guided Access passcode? If you cannot exit Guided Access using your passcode or Face/Touch ID, you will need to perform a force restart on the iPad. You can find instructions for your specific iPad model on Apple's support website.

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