Kiosk Mode for your own VR app
In this guide we’ll guide you through the process of installing Kiosk mode for your own VR app. After which your VR app will automatically start when the device is powered on. Installation will take around 10 minutes.
What you need to get started
- Your VR Device(s)
- A USB cable
- A Windows 10 PC
- Zip file for Kiosk Mode for your VR app
Enabling developer mode
First make sure you have downloaded zip file and unzip it on your computer. In order to install you need to enable developer mode for your VR device and activate USB debugging. You can find instructions for the Oculus GO here and the PICO here.
Step 2. Install Kiosk Mode
Connect your VR device to your computer using USB. Make sure it’s the only Android device connected. Install Kiosk mode by double clicking the ‘install appforcer.bat’ file in the unzipped folder.
Step 3 Obtaining your Bundle ID
The Kiosk Mode software need to know which app to start when booting. This is done by using a Bundle ID, a reference to the application which usually consists of a reversed URL. For example:‘ nl.vrowl.eventapp.android’ is the Bundle ID for Look & Play.
You can find the Bundle ID by:
- Contacting the developer of the app
- Opening your .apk file using Winzip or Winrar. Then open AndroidManifest.xml using MS Notepad. Search for phrase ‘package’ or ‘Build Version Name’ and you should find something similar to: nl.vrowl.eventapp.android
- If the app is installed in the Play store it’s in the URL. In the Look & Play URL you see it clearly visible: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nl.vrowl.eventapp.android&hl=nl
Step 4. Configuring Kiosk Mode
By default the Kiosk mode starts the Look & Play app. To start your own app, first create a text file with Notepad, then paste your Bundle ID and name the file appforcerconfig.txt. Lastly paste the file in the root folder (next to folders like ‘Android’ and ‘Download’) of your VR device.
Step 4. Using Kiosk Mode
Running Kiosk Mode
Kiosk Mode will always run in the background and start when the VR device boots. The user can’t the application and will be forced back to the app after a few seconds.
Disable Kiosk Mode
To disable Kiosk mode you need to alternate the volume buttons 3 times within 3 seconds (so 6 presses total). Make sure the volume is not set to 0 when doing so.
Uninstalling Kiosk Mode
Since Kiosk Mode is not a VR app, it will not show up in the list of regular apps. You can use the uninstall script to remove the Kiosk mode. Simply connect your VR device to your PC and click the uninstall appforcer.bat to remove Kiosk mode from your device.
Having issues?
Talk with the Look & Play team
Submit your information we’ll help you as soon as possible.
FAQ
Supported Platforms
Which platforms are supported?
Look & Play is compatible with the following VR devices:
- Meta Quest 2, 3 and 3S
- Pico G2 4K, G3, Neo 3 and 4 Series (4 Ultra support coming soon)
Where can I download the Look&Play app?
You can find Look & Play in the app stores for both Meta Quest and Pico devices.
Alternatively, head to the downloads page on the dashboard to get the .apk files for manual installation.
Which VR headset do you recommend for Look & Play?
Currently, we recommend using the PICO G3 headset. This headset provides the best image quality and highest comfort. It can also be used without the controller which makes handling and operating much easier.
Content
What are the recommended specifications for the icons?
Codec: PNG
Resolution: 512×512
We strongly recommend to use square Icons.
Do you support stereoscopic 360 video?
Yes, we support stereoscopic TB and LR, as well as monoscopic files.
How many pieces of content can I load onto my device?
Using the dashboard, you can upload 10 pieces of content. When using manual preloading, you can load as much content as will fit in the device storage.
What are the recommended specifications for my logo?
Recommended logo specifications:
Codec: PNG
Resolution: 512 x 512 1:1
We recommend using a logo with a transparent background.
Does Look & Play support equi-angular 360 video?
Yes, Look & Play supports files in the equi-angular 360 format.
Does Look & Play support YouTube videos?
Yes, Look & Play supports Youtube videos in the equi-angular 360 format.
Can I view 180-degree content with Look & Play?
Yes, Look & Play supports 180-degree monoscopic and stereoscopic videos and photos.
Is it possible to play 2D videos with Look & Play?
Yes, it is possible to play 2D videos with Look & Play. Make sure to select ‘regular’ media in the Content manager.
Do you support spatial audio?
Yes, we support spatial audio in the form of Two Big Ears (.tbe) files at 44.1 kHz.
Please note that performance may vary depending on the device. We recommend testing your content thoroughly on each device beforehand to avoid any complications.
What kind of audio is supported?
We support standard stereo as well as spatial audio in the form of Two Big Ears (.tbe) at 44.1 kHz. You can also use the Windows client to playback video files with embedded surround sound.
Audio: Stereo aac audio or .tbe (two big ears) at 44.1 kHz
Please note that performance may vary depending on the device. We recommend testing your content thoroughly on each device beforehand to avoid any complications.
Do I need a background image or logo to use Look & Play?
No and no, you can use our standard ‘universe’ background or choose a color. A logo will only appear if you upload one.
Can I use my own custom branding in Look & Play?
Yes, you have the option to show a custom waiting environment to the customer. You can achieve this by picking a custom background image or color, and an optional logo in the Content Manager. These branding items will be visible when no content is being played on the devices.
How do I upload content to my account?
To upload content, first, go to the Content Manager section of your Dashboard. From there click the upload file button and select your file to start uploading. After uploading please select the right projection method of your video with the dropdown below the filename and optionally add a custom icon. After pressing publish the file(s) will be downloaded to your devices when starting the Look & Play application.
What are the recommended specifications for my background image?
Recommended 360 image:
Codec: PNG
Resolution: 3840 x 3840
What are the recommended specifications for my 360 videos?
Recommended video specifications:
Codec: H265 or H264
Resolution: 3840×3840
FPS: 60
Bitrate: 50 mb/s
Audio: Stereo aac audio or .tbe (two big ears) at 44.1 kHz
Please note that performance may vary depending on the device. We recommend testing your content thoroughly on your device beforehand to avoid any complications.
Is it possible to manually preload my content beforehand?
Yes, this is possible, just follow our guide to manually preload your content.
What is the maximum file size I can push to devices from the Content Manager?
The maximum file size that can be pushed via the Dashboard is 5GB. However, if you have larger files you can load them onto the devices manually using this guide.
How many pieces of content can I upload?
You can upload up to 10 pieces of content via the Content Manager in your Look & Play Dashboard. If you require more files, please contact support@lookandplay.io.
What video projection setting must I choose after uploading my video?
Depending on your file, please adjust your video projection according to the options below.
- 360/180-degree equirectangular
- Monoscopic
- Stereoscopic – over/under
- Stereoscopic – side by side
- 360-degree equi-angular (Youtube)
- Monoscopic
- Stereoscopic
- 2D
- Regular media
What type of content does Look & Play support?
Look & Play supports:
- 360/180-degree equirectangular
- Monoscopic
- Stereoscopic – over/under
- Stereoscopic – side by side
- 360-degree equi-angular (Youtube)
- Monoscopic
- Stereoscopic
- 2D
- Regular media
- Spatial audio (.tbe)
- Subtitles (.srt)
- 360/180-degree photo
Recommended video specifications:
Codec: H265 or H264
Resolution: 3840×3840
FPS: 60
Bitrate: 50 mb/s
Audio: Stereo aac audio or .tbe (two big ears) at 44.1 kHz
Please note that performance may vary depending on the device. We recommend testing your content thoroughly on your device beforehand to avoid any complications.
Recommended image specifications:
Codec: JPG, PNG
Resolution: 3840×3840
Does Look & Play support 4K resolution?
Yes, Look & Play supports 360-degree equirectangular and 360-degree equi-angular (Youtube) video projections in 4K. We recommend using a 3840×3840 resolution but some headsets may support a higher resolution. We must highlight this is a recommendation based on multiple devices and past experiences to ensure that you get an uncompromised viewing experience. However, we do advise you to test your devices thoroughly beforehand to avoid any unforeseen complications.
How do I remove content from the devices?
To remove your files from your devices, first, go to the Content Manager section of your Dashboard. Here you will have an overview of all the files you have uploaded, at the bottom of each file you can click the checkbox to publish or unpublish your file. Deselect the checkbox to remove the file from your devices.
If you want the files to be removed from Look & Play permanently you can click the trash icon in the Content Manager.
Please note that the file will only be removed from your devices once they open the Look & Play application and connect to the internet again.
What does the Publish function do?
The publish function can be found at the bottom of all of your uploaded files in the Content Manager. The publish function gives you the choice to decide what files you would like to make available or unavailable to your connected devices. By clicking the publish checkbox, you are permitting Look & Play to push the file to your connected devices. By deselecting the publish checkbox, you are permitting Look & Play to remove the file from all connected devices, the next time they are turned on and connect to the internet.
How do I publish content?
To publish your content, first, go to the Content Manager section of your Dashboard. Here you will have an overview of all the files you have uploaded, at the bottom of each file you can click the checkbox to publish or unpublish your file. Select the checkbox to begin pushing the file to your connected devices.
Software features
Is it possible to load multiple 360° videos into my device?
Yes you can. Using the dashboard, you can upload 10 pieces of content. When using manual preloading, you can load as much content as will fit in the device storage.
Is it possible to add spatial audio to my 360° video?
Yes, this is possible. We support 44.1 kHz .tbe (Two Big Ears) files.
How do I start a 360° video?
Once you start the Look&Play app you will be in a virtual waiting room. Here you can choose to start a 360° video by looking at the icon for a few seconds. Once the 360° finishes you will automatically return to the waiting room.
Support
Is there a guide available?
Please refer to the Support page on the dashboard for information on using Look & Play.
Is there a support page?
Yes, there is a support page. You can click here to go to the page.
How can I contact your support team?
Please send an email to support@lookandplay.io or you can call us on: +31 30 711 6183
Purchasing and licenses
Can I order a license for a certain date?
Yes, you can. When purchasing a license you can fill in your requested starting date.
How can I pay for my license?
We currently accept the following payment methods:
- American Express
- Maestro
- Mastercard
- VISA
- We also support the following payment processors:
- Bancontact
- Eps
- iDeal
- Multibanco
- Przelewy24
I want to resell Look&Play, is this possible?
We offer special discounts for resellers and partners. Please contact sales@lookandplay.io for more information.
Is it possible to get a license of the software for one week?
Yes, this is possible. Check out the Pricing page for the current prices.
What is Look&Play’s pricing model?
Look & Play works with flexible pricing. The price depends on the amount of devices and time used. You can find more information on the Pricing page.
Is it possible to end the license earlier and get money back?
No, it is not possible to end a license earlier than planned.
Is it possible to lower the amount of devices during a year license?
Yes, this is possible. Send an email to sales@lookandplay.io to lower the amount of devices.
How does the purchase process work?
As soon as you place an order or send an email to sales@lookandplay.io, you will receive a welcome email. In this email we will provide you with the license code which you can enter in the app to activate Look & Play.
How do I extend my license?
Order a new license on the website or send an email to sales@lookandplay.io. After your order, you will receive an automatic email with a new license code. You can use this code to continue using Look&Play.
Kiosk Mode
For which devices is Kiosk Mode available?
Kiosk Mode is available for PICO headsets.
What does the Kiosk Mode cost?
Kiosk Mode is free for the Look&Play app. If you would like to use it for your own VR App the costs are 145 Euros for a lifetime license.
Where can i download Kiosk Mode for PICO
You can find the download on the downloads page of the dashboard.
