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Locking a Device to the TWS Punch App

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If you’re using a shared tablet or phone as a punch clock, you can lock the device so employees can only access the TimeWellScheduled app – preventing access to browsers, other apps, or device settings.

iOS – Guided Access

Guided Access is a built-in iOS feature that locks the device to a single app.

One-time setup:

  1. Open Settings → Accessibility → Guided Access
  2. Toggle Guided Access on
  3. Tap Passcode Settings and set a passcode (this is separate from your device unlock code)
  4. Optionally enable Touch ID / Face ID to exit Guided Access more easily

Starting a Guided Access session:

  1. Open the TimeWellScheduled app
  2. Triple-click the Side button (or Home button on older models)
  3. Tap Start in the top-right corner
  4. The device is now locked to the TWS app

To exit Guided Access: Triple-click the Side or Home button, enter your Guided Access passcode, and tap End.

Tip: You can also disable specific areas of the screen (like navigation controls) by drawing circles around them before tapping Start.

Android – Screen Pinning

Screen Pinning is Android’s equivalent feature. Steps may vary slightly by manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).

One-time setup:

  1. Open Settings → Security (or Biometrics and Security on Samsung)
  2. Scroll to Screen Pinning (may appear under Advanced or Other Security Settings)
  3. Toggle Screen Pinning on
  4. Enable Ask for PIN before unpinning to prevent employees from exiting

Pinning the TWS app:

  1. Open the TimeWellScheduled app
  2. Tap the Recent Apps button (the square icon, or swipe up and hold)
  3. Find the TWS app card and tap the app icon at the top of the card
  4. Tap Pin (or Pin this app)
  5. Tap Got it to confirm

The device is now locked to the TWS app. Employees cannot switch apps, pull down notifications, or access the browser.

To unpin: Press and hold both the Back and Recent Apps buttons simultaneously, then enter your PIN or pattern when prompted.

Note: On some Android devices (particularly Samsung), Screen Pinning is called App Pinning and is found under Settings → Biometrics and Security → Other Security Settings.

Recommended Setup for Punch Stations

For the best experience as a dedicated punch station:

  • Disable auto-lock / screen timeout so the app stays visible between punches
  • Enable a strong device PIN separate from the Screen Pinning/Guided Access passcode, so only managers can fully unlock the device
  • Mount the device at a fixed location (wall mount or stand) to discourage employees from walking away with it

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