How to : Prevent guests from leaving the app with Guided Access

When you're running a capture or share station, you want guests focused on the experience - not poking around the rest of your iPad. That’s where Guided Access comes in.

Guided Access is a built-in iOS feature that locks your iPad to a single app, making sure no one can leave the app, change settings, or access other parts of the device. It's perfect for events, kiosks, and unattended stations.

What You’ll Need

  • An iPad running iOS 12 or later
  • The Booth.Events app installed and ready to go
  • Access to your iPad’s settings

Step 1: Enable Guided Access

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPad.
  2. Tap Accessibility from the list on the left.

  3. Scroll to the bottom and select Guided Access.

    Toggle Guided Access to On.

    Tap Passcode Settings:

    • Choose Set Guided Access Passcode to enter a 4- or 6-digit code.
    • You can also toggle on Face ID or Touch ID for easier unlocking.

Step 2: Open Booth.events

  • Launch the Booth.Events app
  • Make sure it’s fully loaded and on the screen you want guests to interact with.

Step 3: Start Guided Access

  1. Triple-click the Side button (or Home button, depending on your iPad model).
  2. The Guided Access menu will appear on screen.
  3. Tap Start in the top right.

Optional: Adjust Options

  • Before tapping Start, tap Options in the bottom-left to:
    • Disable buttons like volume or power
    • Prevent the screen from sleeping

Step 4: Confirm It's Locked

Once Guided Access is active:

  • You cannot swipe down from the top
  • The Home and Side buttons are disabled
  • Control Center and notifications are blocked

Try pressing any physical buttons. If nothing happens, you're good to go.

Ending Guided Access

When you're ready to exit the app:

  1. Triple-click the Side button (or Home button).
  2. Enter the passcode or use Face ID / Touch ID.
  3. Tap End in the top-left corner of the screen.

Pro Tips

  • Test before the event to avoid any surprises during setup.
  • Keep your iPad plugged in. Guided Access disables auto-lock, which can drain your battery.
  • Hide notifications: Put your iPad in Do Not Disturb mode before starting Guided Access.

Still need help?

If you run into trouble or want help configuring your setup, reach out to us anytime at support@booth.events. We're happy to guide you through it.

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