Where Is Android App Pinning Stored?
App pinning locks the screen to one app until you unpin with a hold of Back and Recents. Enable it under Security settings first.
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App pinning is the loan-your-phone feature. It locks the foreground app so a kid or a cashier cannot wander into messages or photos. The master switch hides in Security settings, off by default, with an option to demand the lock screen before unpinning.
Pinning pairs well with a locked-down guest setup but replaces none of it. Notifications can still peek over the pinned app unless silenced, and calls ring through. For longer loans, a separate user profile or the newer Private Space fits better. Pinning covers the quick handoff: one app, one task, one gesture out.
Where Android App Pinning stores this, by platform
Settings > Security > App pinning
System setting, no files involved. Menu names vary by maker (Security, Security and privacy, or More security settings). Pair with Do Not Disturb for clean handoffs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I pin an app?
Open Settings > Security > App pinning and turn it on, optionally requiring unlock to unpin. Then open Recents, tap the app icon menu, and choose Pin. Hand the phone over knowing nothing else opens without the unpin gesture.
How do I unpin the screen?
Press and hold Back and Recents together, or follow the on-screen hint if gestures replaced buttons. With unlock-before-unpin enabled, the lock screen appears next. The exact gesture varies by maker, so read the hint text the first time.
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