How to Fix an iPad Stuck in Kiosk Mode [Ultimate Guide]

In this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, we'll walk you through multiple methods, each consisting of simple steps, to help you resolve the issue and regain control over your iPad.

By @May Last Updated March 1, 2024

What Causes “iPad Stuck in Kiosk Mode”?

There can be several reasons why an iPad gets stuck in kiosk mode. Here are some common causes:

  • Kiosk App Glitch: Sometimes, the kiosk app itself may have a bug or glitch that prevents it from exiting the kiosk mode properly.
  • Software Update: After updating the iPad's software, there could be compatibility issues between the updated software and the kiosk app, causing it to malfunction and get stuck in kiosk mode.
  • Incorrect Settings: If the kiosk app or the iPad's settings are misconfigured or altered unintentionally, it can lead to the device being stuck in kiosk mode.
  • Power Interruptions: Abrupt power interruptions, such as a sudden loss of battery or forceful shut down, while the iPad is in kiosk mode, can disrupt the app's normal functioning and cause it to remain stuck.
  • Hardware Issues: In some cases, hardware problems like a faulty home button or a malfunctioning touchscreen can interfere with the iPad's ability to exit kiosk mode.

How to Fix “iPad Stuck in Kiosk Mode” with Simple Methods

Method 1: Restart Your iPad

Step 1: Press and hold the Power button and either the Volume Up or Volume Down button simultaneously.

Step 2: Keep holding both buttons until the power-off slider appears on the screen.

Step 3: Drag the power-off slider to turn off your iPad completely.

Step 4: After a few seconds, press and hold the Power button again until the Apple logo appears.

Step 5: Release the Power button and wait for your iPad to restart. Check if the kiosk mode issue has been resolved.

Method 2: Force Close the Kiosk App

Step 1: Double-click the Home button or swipe up from the bottom (for newer iPad models) to access the App Switcher.

Step 2: Swipe left or right to locate the kiosk app that is causing the issue.

Step 3: Swipe up on the app's preview to force close it. This will terminate the app completely.

Step 4: Return to the home screen and try launching the kiosk app again to see if it exits the kiosk mode.

Method 3: Reset All Settings

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPad.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap on "General."

Step 3: Scroll to the bottom and select "Reset."

Step 4: Tap on "Reset All Settings" and enter your passcode if prompted.

Step 5: Confirm the reset by tapping "Reset All Settings" again.

Note: This method will not erase your data but will reset all your personalized settings to the default values. Make sure to reconfigure your preferences after performing this step.

Method 4: Update or Reinstall the Kiosk App

Step 1: Open the App Store on your iPad.

Step 2: Tap on the "Updates" tab at the bottom.

Step 3: If there is an update available for the kiosk app causing the issue, tap on "Update" next to the app's name.

Step 4: If updating doesn't resolve the problem, uninstall the kiosk app by pressing and holding its icon on the home screen until it starts shaking.

Step 5: Tap the "X" button on the app's icon, then confirm the deletion. Afterward, reinstall the app from the App Store.

Method 5: Restore Your iPad

Step 1: Connect your iPad to a computer with the latest version of iTunes installed.

Step 2: Launch iTunes and select your iPad when it appears in the iTunes interface.

Step 3: Click on the "Summary" tab and locate the "Restore iPad" button.

Step 4: Confirm the action and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your iPad to its factory settings.

Step 5: After the restoration process completes, set up your iPad as new or restore from a backup, depending on your preference.

Note: Restoring your iPad will erase all data on the device. Ensure you have a recent backup before proceeding with this method.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Full iPad Backup to Stop Losing Data

Step 1: Connect your iPad to a computer using a USB cable and launch iTunes.

Step 2: Select your iPad when it appears in iTunes, and click on the "Summary" tab.

Step 3: Under the "Backups" section, choose "This computer" and click on "Back Up Now" to initiate the backup process.

Step 4: Wait for the backup to complete. The time required may vary depending on the amount of data on your iPad.

Step 5: Once the backup is finished, you can verify its success by checking the backup details in iTunes. Ensure that the backup includes all the necessary data, including apps, photos, contacts, and settings.

The Bottom Line

By following these step-by-step methods, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue of an iPad stuck in kiosk mode. Whether it's a simple restart or a more advanced restoration process, these solutions provide a range of options to help you regain control over your iPad and return it to its normal functionality.