Enabling Bluetooth on Android Tablets Running in Kiosk ModeSolved

Participant
Discussion
9 hours ago May 15, 2026

We have Android tablets running in Hexnode Kiosk mode, and we need Bluetooth to remain enabled on these devices. The tablets need to communicate with handheld barcode scanners over Bluetooth for label scanning, and then print labels through printers connected over Wi-Fi. 

Is there a way to allow Bluetooth functionality without removing the devices from Kiosk mode? 

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Marked SolutionPending Review
Hexnode Expert
1 hour ago May 15, 2026
Marked SolutionPending Review

Yes, this can be configured while still keeping the devices locked down in Kiosk mode. You can enable Bluetooth access through the Kiosk policy settings so the tablets can communicate with the handheld scanners while continuing to operate securely. 

To configure this: 

  • Navigate to Policies and edit the existing Kiosk policy assigned to the tablets. 

  • Go to Kiosk Lockdown > Android Kiosk Lockdown > Peripheral Settings. 

  • Under the Network section, enable the option: Allow users to turn Bluetooth on/off. 

This allows Bluetooth functionality on the kiosk devices. 

If users need to manually pair the Bluetooth scanners, they will also require access to the Bluetooth settings menu. The steps vary slightly depending on the kiosk configuration being used. 

For Multi-App Kiosk devices: 

  • Once Bluetooth is enabled in the peripheral settings, a Settings icon will appear on the kiosk home screen. Users can access the Bluetooth menu directly from there and pair the scanners. 

For Single-App Kiosk devices: 

Navigate to: 

  • Kiosk Lockdown > Android Kiosk Lockdown > Peripheral Settings > Other Settings 

  • Enable Access peripheral settings. 

  • Select the Floating icon option. 

This adds a floating settings button on the device screen, allowing users to open Bluetooth settings and pair scanners without exiting the kiosk application. 

After making the changes: 

  • Navigate to Policy Targets. 

  • Select the required tablets. 

  • Save and push the updated policy to the devices. 

Once the policy syncs, the tablets should be able to communicate with the Bluetooth scanners while continuing to function in Kiosk mode for label printing workflows. 

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