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Guided Access (Kiosk Mode)

Running an unattended booth? Guided Access is a built-in iOS feature that locks your iPad to ALIVE — preventing guests from accidentally (or intentionally) swiping away from the app.



What Is Guided Access?


Guided Access is an iOS accessibility feature that restricts the iPad to a single app. When enabled:


  • Guests cannot leave ALIVE — no swiping home, no switching apps
  • Hardware buttons can be disabled — prevents volume changes or accidental screenshots
  • The iPad becomes a dedicated kiosk for your photobooth


This is essential for unattended booth setups where you're not standing next to the iPad.



How to Enable Guided Access


Step 1: Turn On the Feature


  1. Open iPad Settings
  2. Go to Accessibility → Guided Access
  3. Toggle Guided Access on
  4. Set a passcode (you'll need this to exit Guided Access later)


[screenshot: Guided Access settings in iOS]


Step 2: Start a Guided Access Session


  1. Open ALIVE and go live with your event
  2. Triple-click the side button (or Home button on older iPads)
  3. Tap Start in the Guided Access screen


The iPad is now locked to ALIVE.


Step 3: Exit Guided Access


When you're done:


  1. Triple-click the side button
  2. Enter your passcode
  3. Tap End




When starting a Guided Access session, tap Options to configure:


Setting

Recommendation

Side Button

Off — Prevents guests from putting the iPad to sleep

Volume Buttons

Off — Keeps volume consistent

Motion

Off — Prevents rotation issues

Touch

On — Guests need touch to use the booth!

Time Limit

Off — Let the booth run as long as needed



Tips


  • Set a memorable passcode — You'll need it to exit, and there's no "forgot passcode" option for Guided Access
  • Test before the event — Make sure everything works in Guided Access mode before guests arrive
  • Combine with ALIVE's exit password — Use both Guided Access AND ALIVE's built-in exit password for double protection
  • Disable notifications — Turn on Do Not Disturb to prevent notification banners from appearing during the event


Guided Access + Do Not Disturb + ALIVE's exit password = a bulletproof unattended booth setup. Guests can only interact with the photobooth — nothing else.

Updated on: 22/03/2026

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