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BackWhat Is an Interactive Kiosk?
An interactive kiosk is a self-service device that allows users to access information, complete transactions, place orders, check in, or perform other tasks through a touchscreen or another input interface. Unlike digital signage that primarily displays content, an interactive kiosk accepts user input and responds with relevant information or actions.
Businesses deploy these kiosks in retail stores, restaurants, airports, hospitals, hotels, banks, and other public locations. Depending on its purpose, a kiosk may connect to payment terminals, barcode scanners, printers, cameras, or other peripherals.
Interactive kiosks help organizations automate routine services while giving customers direct access to digital applications.
How does an interactive kiosk work?
A kiosk combines hardware, software, and network connectivity to deliver a controlled self-service experience.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Display or touchscreen | Presents information and accepts user input |
| Kiosk application | Provides the service or workflow |
| Operating system | Runs the device and its applications |
| Network connection | Connects the kiosk to business systems and online services |
| Peripherals | Support payments, scanning, printing, or identification |
| Kiosk management software | Restricts device functionality and supports remote administration |
When users interact with the screen, the application processes their input and communicates with relevant backend systems when necessary.
Common types of interactive kiosks
Organizations configure kiosks for different customer and employee workflows.
- Self-checkout kiosks: Let customers scan products and complete purchases.
- Ordering kiosks: Allow customers to browse menus, customize orders, and make payments.
- Check-in kiosks: Support registration at airports, hotels, hospitals, and events.
- Way-finding kiosks: Provide interactive maps and directions.
- Information kiosks: Give users access to product, service, or facility information.
- Ticketing kiosks: Allow users to purchase or collect tickets independently.
Organizations can also build custom kiosk workflows around specific business requirements.
Interactive kiosk vs digital signage
The level of user interaction creates the main difference.
| Interactive kiosk | Digital signage |
|---|---|
| Accepts user input | Primarily displays content |
| Supports self-service workflows | Delivers information or advertising |
| May connect to peripherals | Usually requires fewer peripherals |
| Can process transactions | Primarily provides one-way communication |
| Responds to user actions | Typically cycles through predefined content |
Some deployments combine both functions and display promotional content until a user starts interacting with the screen.
Managing interactive kiosks with Hexnode UEM
Hexnode UEM can turn supported Android, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, macOS, and Apple TV devices into purpose-built kiosks. Available kiosk configurations vary by platform: Android, supported Windows devices, and supervised iOS/iPadOS devices support single-app and multi-app configurations; supervised Apple TVs support Single App Kiosk, while macOS 10.13.4 or later supports Autonomous Single App Mode for compatible applications.
IT teams can also deploy applications and content, configure kiosk settings, monitor devices, and remotely troubleshoot supported endpoints from the Hexnode console. These controls help organizations manage geographically distributed kiosk fleets without requiring technicians at every location.
FAQs
Yes. Some kiosk applications can operate locally without continuous connectivity. Features that require real-time payments, cloud databases, account verification, or other online services still require a network connection.
Depending on the device and operating system, kiosks can use peripherals such as barcode scanners, receipt printers, payment terminals, card readers, cameras, and external displays.
Businesses can restrict devices to approved applications, disable unnecessary settings and functions, control web access, keep software updated, secure physical hardware, and monitor deployed devices remotely.
