Setting Up Single App Mode (Single App Lock) with Addigy – Addigy

Single App Mode (also known as Single App Lock) allows administrators to restrict Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV) to a single application, locking down all other functionality. This is essential for kiosk setups, exam environments, and dedicated business tools where focused device use is required. The selected app will reopen immediately after the device is restarted.

Overview

When Single App Mode is enabled through MDM, the designated app will automatically launch and remain open, even after the device restarts. Users are prevented from switching to other apps, accessing settings, or using hardware buttons (depending on configuration).

Step-by-Step Configuration in Addigy

Navigate to Catalog > MDM Profiles
Create a new MDM profile by clicking New on the top right of the screen.
Select Single App Lock Payload
Search for and select "Single App Lock" when creating the payload.
Name the Payload
Give your profile a meaningful name for organization tracking.
Enter the App Bundle ID
Add the application’s Bundle ID in the "App To Lock" field. This specifies which app will be locked to the device.
- To locate an app’s Bundle ID:
  Go to the device's GoLive page → Software → Apps and Books → Select the appropriate token → Bundle ID.
Deploy the Profile
After creating and configuring the profile, deploy it via Addigy’s policy management tools.

Updating Apps Under Single App Mode

When an app in Single App Mode is updating, the device will briefly exit to the Home Screen. Once the update has completed, it will automatically return to Single App Mode (the app will reopen).

Important Apple Requirements & Limitations

Supervision Required:
Single App Mode can only be enforced on supervised devices enrolled via Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) or configured via Apple Configurator.
Supported OS & Devices:
iOS, iPadOS, Shared iPad, and tvOS are supported. MacOS uses a different payload (Autonomous Single App Mode).
MDM Profile Restriction:
Only a single App Lock payload can be present per device.
Hardware Controls:
Administrators can optionally restrict device hardware controls such as Home, Volume, and Sleep/Wake buttons. Additional controls can disable touch, motion, screen auto-lock, and more.
Exit Procedure:
Exiting Single App Mode typically requires MDM, via Addigy, to remove the payload or a passcode configured by the administrator. This ensures only authorized personnel can unlock the device.

Single App Mode is a powerful tool for administrators needing to lock down devices for dedicated use. Proper supervision, enrollment, and profile deployment ensure a secure, focused environment for any use case.