Can Your iPad App Actually Use Autonomous Single App Mode?

iPad autonomous single app mode compatibility depends on whether an app supports Autonomous Single App Mode (ASAM). This feature lets an app lock an iPad to its interface and release it when the intended workflow ends.

For IT teams deploying iPads for exams, assessments, or dedicated business workflows, compatibility matters. Installing an app or assigning a kiosk policy does not automatically make it ASAM-compatible.

Does Your App Meet iPad Autonomous Single App Mode Compatibility Requirements?

The app must explicitly support Autonomous Single App Mode. An app that works normally or supports another kiosk configuration may not support ASAM.

Start by checking the app developer’s documentation. Confirm that the app can activate the restricted session and release the iPad when the task finishes, the user logs out, or another supported exit condition occurs.

For example, an examination app may need to prevent students from switching apps during a test. After submission, it should release the device according to its supported workflow. Validate this behavior before deployment.

Checking iPad autonomous single app mode compatibility before deployment helps IT teams identify unsupported apps before configuring kiosk restrictions.

Is Your iPad Ready for ASAM?

Hexnode’s ASAM configuration requires a supervised iPad running iOS 7.0 or later. Supervision enables device-management controls required for this configuration, but it does not make an unsupported app compatible.

Before proceeding, verify the device’s supervision status, operating system version, and the app’s own compatibility requirements.

Is the app correctly associated with the ASAM policy?

The compatible app must be added to the ASAM policy and the policy assigned to the intended devices. Installing the app separately or making it available through the app catalog is not enough.

In Hexnode UEM, configure the policy as follows:

• Go to Policies > New Policy and create a policy.
• Open Kiosk Lockdown and select Autonomous Single App Mode under iOS Kiosk Lockdown.
• Select Configure, then click the + icon to add the supported app.
• Open Policy Targets and select the relevant devices or groups.
• Save the policy.

Hexnode allows administrators to add supported in-house, App Store, and Volume Purchase Program (VPP) apps from the available inventory or public store. However, their availability does not confirm ASAM compatibility.

Has the configuration been tested?

Test the complete workflow on a representative supervised iPad before rolling it out broadly. Launch the app, verify that the device restricts access as expected, and confirm that the app releases the device at the appropriate point.

Also, test relevant exit conditions and check whether the behavior matches the app developer’s documentation. Resolve any issues before expanding deployment.

Conclusion

To determine whether your iPad app can use ASAM, verify app support, device supervision, and policy association. Test all three before deployment. Refer the Hexnode ASAM configuration guide for setup instructions.