Android developing: restrict user to only run and use my application

Question

I'm developing android application for CAR usage and I need that in phone or tablet the driver can only run and use this application: No calling or running other app. Is that possible? If it is not, is there any way to restrict the user for example uninstallaing other apps and disabling the installation system and disabling the calling system?

Thanks in Advance,

Answer 1

I have done a similar app like this, which is in fact an in-cab entertainment system. I have also written a blog post about it, you can check it out here: http://arnab.ch/blog/2012/01/android-auto-updating-homescreen-application/.

This is a complex application and let me list out the relevant items for you:

1. Your app should be a HomeScreen application (search google for how to create HomeScreen app for Android)
2. It seems clear that you would have some control over the device, so you can ensure that no additional applications are installed.
3. The homescreen can be dynamically enabled/disabled, check out KytePhone app to see what I meant. In short you would need some password to exit your HomeScreen app.
4. If you want to silently uninstall/install any application, then you'd need root access, or you'd have to have a custom Android build where your app will have System privilege (might not be what you're looking for).

I hope I am able to give you some direction, if anything is not clear then let me know.