In today’s digital world, smartphones are a central part of our lives, used by people of all ages for everything from messaging to watching videos, paying bills, and browsing the web. But what happens when you hand your phone to a child to play a game or to a friend to show a photo—and they accidentally open something else? That’s where Android Screen Pinning comes into play.
What is Screen Pinning?
Screen Pinning is a built-in security feature in Android that allows you to lock your phone to a single app. When screen pinning is enabled, the user can only use that one app and can’t switch to other apps, go back to the home screen, or access your personal data—unless they unpin the screen using a specific action or PIN/password.
This feature was introduced in Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and has become an essential tool for both personal and professional use.
Why is Screen Pinning Needed?
We often find ourselves in situations where we need to let someone use our phone temporarily. Here are some common examples:
Handing your phone to a child to play a game without worrying they'll make a call or delete your files.
Letting a friend or coworker make a call or use a specific app without accessing your photos or messages.
Using a device in public places like stores, museums, or offices where it serves a specific function (e.g., survey, kiosk, or product display).
Screen pinning ensures that your private content stays private and prevents unauthorized use beyond the intended app.
Advantages of Screen Pinning
Enhanced Privacy: Limits access to one app, protecting your data and apps from prying eyes.
Child Safety: Prevents children from navigating away from safe or educational apps.
Professional Use: Useful for businesses that provide devices for public or customer use (like tablets in retail).
Accidental Protection: Stops others from accidentally deleting files, sending messages, or changing settings.
No Extra Apps Needed: Screen pinning is a built-in feature—no need for third-party apps.
When to Use Screen Pinning
Before giving your phone to someone else for a specific task (e.g., playing a game, filling out a form).
In educational or public environments where a device should be restricted to a specific application.
When hosting a demo or presentation on your device and want to avoid distractions or leaks.
In customer service kiosks or waiting areas using Android tablets.
**
How to Use Screen Pinning (Step-by-Step)**
Enable Screen Pinning:
Go to Settings > Security or Biometrics & Security.
Find Screen Pinning or App Pinning and toggle it On.
(Optional but recommended) Turn on the option to require a PIN to unpin.
Pin the App:
Open the app you want to pin.
Tap the Overview (Recent Apps) button.
Tap the app icon at the top of the window, then select “Pin”.
Unpin the App:
To exit, press and hold the Back and Overview buttons at the same time.
If enabled, enter your PIN, pattern, or password to unlock the device.
Top comments (0)