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Self-service totem and Kiosk mode: customer joins the queue from a tablet, no phone needed
Kiosk mode turns a regular tablet into a self-service totem at reception. Customers who arrived without a phone (or simply prefer not to use theirs) check in from the tablet, join the queue normally, and are notified by the TV display or the front desk. It replaces paper dispensers and expensive proprietary kiosk hardware using equipment many businesses already have.
When Kiosk mode makes the difference
In a virtual queue with a QR code, over 90% of Brazilian customers have a phone and check in themselves. But there's always a fraction of customers who arrive without a phone, with a dead battery, broken camera, or who simply prefer not to use their own device. Kiosk mode covers this case: reception gets a tablet (or older phone) on a stand, and anyone who needs to joins the queue right from the tablet in seconds.
How Kiosk mode works at /kiosk/{slug}
The totem is a web page at /kiosk/{slug} that runs in kiosk mode: no login, no way to navigate to other URLs, no back button, super-simplified flow. The customer taps "Join the queue", enters their name and (optional) WhatsApp, flags Brazilian Law 10.048 priority if applicable, and confirms. They then see the ticket, position and estimated wait. They can tap "Print" if a thermal printer is configured, or just remember the number.
- Runs on any tablet with a modern browser (iPad, Android, ChromeOS)
- Simplified mode with no login and no escape to other pages
- Same queue backend as QR-code check-in — no separate queue
- Brazilian Law 10.048 priority flag available with one tap
- Optionally supports thermal-receipt printing via Bluetooth printer
How much a Kiosk-mode totem costs
Instead of a proprietary queue totem (R$2,000–R$5,000 in hardware alone, plus software and maintenance), Kiosk mode runs on a tablet costing R$1,000–R$2,000 (a basic iPad or entry-level Samsung tablet is enough). In businesses that already own a tablet, the marginal cost is zero. A desk stand is R$50–R$200. Compared to a traditional totem, the hardware savings are R$1,500–R$4,000 with no loss of functionality.
Reception setup best practices
Ideally the tablet sits on a desk stand near the entrance, at standing eye level. Use portrait orientation for a taller, easier-to-read interface. For high-traffic venues, two tablets in parallel pay off. Configure the tablet in OS-level kiosk mode (iOS Guided Access or Android Kiosk Mode) to lock it on the Lyne page — so the customer can't navigate away, open videos, or unlock the device.
Frequently asked questions about totems and Kiosk mode
Can I use an older phone instead of a tablet?
Yes. Any phone with a modern browser works. Kiosk mode UI is responsive and runs fine on screens 5 inches or larger. For businesses with retired phones, it's a great way to repurpose hardware. Tablets have an ergonomic edge thanks to the larger screen, but aren't required.
Does Kiosk mode print paper tickets?
Optionally. If the business already has a Bluetooth thermal printer (commerce-style), you can configure it to print the digital ticket at the end of check-in. Useful for environments with customers who don't easily remember numbers. Without a printer, the ticket shows large on the tablet screen and the customer memorizes it or takes a photo.
How do I prevent customers from leaving the browser on the tablet?
Use the OS kiosk mode. On iPad: Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access, open the browser at /kiosk/{slug}, and triple-click the side button to lock. On Android: install a free "kiosk app" or use Screen Pinning. This guarantees the tablet only runs the queue page.
Does it work offline if internet goes down?
Not in full-function mode. Kiosk mode requires connectivity to register the customer in the queue in the database. If internet drops, the tablet shows an "offline" indicator and reception must check the customer in manually on the main panel once it's back. For businesses with unstable internet, we recommend a 4G backup uplink on the router.
Ready to set up your self-service totem?
Permanent free plan up to 100 visits per month. Kiosk mode included. Setup in under two minutes.