In order to build the best iPad kiosk experience for your guests, customers, attendees or visitors, it is helpful to understand all that is available. It is good to know what you don’t know. With this in mind, we built (and are building) the ultimate and exhaustive glossary of terms and definitions for iPad kiosks.

Our goal is to initially show all the terms with their short definitions, but long term, build out pages and further detail on each (maybe not every) topic, term or definition. We will have the most comprehensive knowledge base on iPad kiosk software, hardware and implementation when complete.

iPad Kiosk Glossary

iPad Kiosk Mode: A setting that locks an iPad into a single app or limits its functionality to specific apps, preventing users from accessing other applications or settings.

Kiosk Enclosure: A physical stand or casing designed to securely hold an iPad. It can be mounted on walls, stands, or countertops and often includes features for cable management, security locks, and tilt for ergonomic viewing.

Guided Access: A feature on iOS devices that helps users stay focused on a task by limiting the iPad to a single app and allowing you to control which app features are available.

MDM (Mobile Device Management): Software that allows IT administrators to control, secure, and enforce policies on smartphones, tablets, and other endpoints. MDM is used to manage the deployment of kiosks by remotely controlling settings, applications, and content.

Interactive Display: A digital screen setup that allows users to interact with multimedia content through touch or other sensors. Used in kiosks for engaging visitors with information, services, or promotions.

Digital Signage: The use of digital displays to show advertising, information, or other messages to people in public spaces. An iPad kiosk can serve as a digital sign with dynamic content.

Content Management System (CMS): A software application used to create, manage, and modify digital content. In the context of iPad kiosks, a CMS might be used to update the content displayed or interacted with on the device.

POE (Power Over Ethernet): A technology that allows electrical power to be transmitted over data cables rather than power cords. For iPad kiosks, this can simplify wiring and provide a cleaner setup, though an adapter is required since iPads do not natively support POE.

Accessibility Features: Built-in iPad features that make devices more accessible to people with disabilities. These include voice control, screen readers, and gesture modifications, which can be important for public kiosks.

Secure Browsing: Features or settings that restrict website access or internet browsing on the iPad to prevent misuse or access to inappropriate content.

Anti-Theft Security: Measures to prevent the iPad or kiosk enclosure from being stolen. This can include locking mechanisms for the enclosure and software solutions that can track or disable the iPad if it is removed from the kiosk.

Branding Wrap: Custom graphics or decals applied to the kiosk enclosure to promote a brand, event, or exhibit. These are often used to attract attention and enhance the user experience.

Interactive Applications: Custom apps designed for specific interactions in a kiosk setting, such as information lookup, product browsing, registration forms, surveys, and educational games.

QR Code Integration: The use of QR codes to link directly to online content or applications. Users can scan the QR code with their device to access additional information, sign up for services, or download apps.

Battery Management: Strategies and accessories for managing power supply to the iPad, especially important in settings where power outlets may not be readily available or in mobile kiosk setups.

Analytics and Reporting: Tools and software that track and report on user interactions with the kiosk, such as app usage, session lengths, and touch heatmaps. This data can be invaluable for understanding user engagement and improving the kiosk experience.

Attract Screen: A dynamic display or screen saver designed to grab the attention of passersby and encourage them to interact with the kiosk. It often showcases eye-catching graphics, animations, or a preview of the content and services available.

User Interface (UI): The design and layout of on-screen elements with which users interact, such as buttons, icons, and menus. A well-designed UI is crucial for making the kiosk intuitive and user-friendly.

User Experience (UX): The overall experience a user has when interacting with the kiosk, influenced by how easy and enjoyable the kiosk is to use. UX design includes considering the user’s journey from initial attraction to final action or outcome.

Touchscreen Gestures: Specific movements made on the kiosk’s touchscreen to control it, such as swiping, tapping, and pinching. Gestures should be intuitive and aligned with the kiosk’s content and goals.

Multimedia Content: The use of various forms of media, including text, images, video, and audio, to communicate information or provide entertainment. Effective use of multimedia can enhance the kiosk’s appeal and engagement.

Call to Action( CTA): An instruction to the user designed to provoke an immediate response, usually involving an action such as “Learn More,” “Sign Up,” or “Visit Us.” CTAs are crucial for guiding user interaction and achieving the kiosk’s objectives.

Feedback Mechanisms: Features that allow users to provide immediate feedback about their experience with the kiosk, such as rating buttons, feedback forms, or social media links. This can provide valuable insights for improving the kiosk.

Personalization: Tailoring the content or user experience based on the user’s actions, preferences, or demographic information. Personalization can increase engagement by making the experience more relevant to the individual user.

Gamification: The incorporation of game-design elements and game principles in non-game contexts, such as scoring, competitions, or achievements, to make the interaction more engaging and motivating.

Language Selection: The ability for users to choose their preferred language for the kiosk’s content, broadening the accessibility and appeal of the kiosk to a more diverse audience.

Data Capture and Forms: The integration of forms or prompts within the kiosk experience to collect user information, such as contact details or preferences. This should be designed with privacy and data protection in mind.

Social Media Integration: Features that allow users to interact with or share content on social media platforms directly from the kiosk, enhancing the kiosk’s reach and engagement.

Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences: The overlay of digital content onto the real world through the kiosk or mobile devices, providing interactive and immersive experiences that can captivate users.

Wayfinding Features: Navigation aids integrated into the kiosk, such as maps or directories, that help users find their way around a venue, essential for large events, malls, or museums.

Real-time Content Updates: The ability to update the content displayed on the kiosk remotely and in real-time, ensuring that the information presented is always current and relevant.