Unkiosk Mode on Skydio X10D

Published: Updated:

  1. Skydio
  2. Skydio X10
  3. Skydio X10D Offline

By default, the Skydio X10D Controller operates in Kiosk Mode, a locked environment that limits access to the Skydio Flight Deck application and prevents access to the underlying Android system. This mode supports operational security, protects against unintended system changes, prevents unauthorized application installation, and provides a simplified mission environment.

Unkiosking permanently exits Kiosk Mode and cannot be reversed. Once unkiosked, the Android interface becomes accessible, allowing users to install approved .APK applications, configure advanced system or network settings, and run ATAK plugins or alternate ground control station applications. Modification of system or application settings may result in:

  • Loss of controller functionality
  • Radio disconnection
  • Loss of aircraft connectivity
  • Permanent device failure

[warning]Do not factory reset the phone through the Android operating system or tamper with Android operating system settings. This will delete Skydio Flight software from the device and render it inoperable. It will be considered out of warranty.[/warning]

To install Android Applications

The process for adding applications onto an unkiosked Skydio X10D controller is the same as for an Android device. Download the application to a USB-C drive, insert the drive into the back of the controller, and use the Android operating system on the phone to install the application.

Requirementsphone's Android operating system 

  • USB-C storage device formatted to ExFAT
  • .APK files from trusted and verified sources

Procedure

  1. Copy the approved .APK file to an ExFAT-formatted USB-C storage device
  2. Insert the USB-C storage device into the rear USB-C port of the controller
  3. Open the Android Files application
  4. Locate the connected USB-C storage device
  5. Select the .APK file
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation

Warning: Installing Android applications may create operational risk, including controller malfunction or permanent failure. Skydio does not validate third-party applications and cannot guarantee their compatibility. Unauthorized, unverified, or incompatible applications may cause unexpected behavior, system instability, or other operating anomalies. 

ATAK Application

The controller includes a factory-installed ATAK application configured for interoperability with the Skydio Enterprise application (Flight Deck). Updating, modifying, or uninstalling the factory-installed ATAK application will result in loss of interoperability with the Skydio Enterprise application. To maintain proper system functionality:

  • Do not update the ATAK application through external sources
  • Do not modify the installed ATAK version
  • Do not uninstall the ATAK application

ATAK UAS Tool

To use ATAK UAS Tool on an unkiosked Skydio X10D controller:

  1. Delete the ATAK App from the Android device
  2. Download the latest version of ATAK
  3. Place the downloaded file onto a USB-C drive
  4. Insert the USB-C drive into the back of the controller
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the application

VPNs

Please be aware that the only VPN currently supported by the X10D controller is OpenVPN. All other VPNs require high levels of networking expertise from the end user, and Skydio cannot support individual requests in this area. You must follow these instructions if you have an unkiosked controller. If you do not follow the correct practices, you may render the controller inoperable and out of warranty.

  • Do not delete the Skydio Enterprise Application. This is the Skydio flight software. If it is deleted, the controller will no longer function and will be considered out of warranty.
  • Do not factory reset the phone through the Android operating system. A factory reset will remove the Skydio flight software from the device, rendering it inoperable and out of warranty.
  • Do not tamper with Android operating system settings or reset the Android device. Changing system settings or performing a device reset may cause permanent controller failure, including device bricking.
  • Do not modify Ethernet or IP settings on the Android device. Changing these settings will disconnect the radio and may result in loss of aircraft connectivity.

Visit OpenVPN Split Tunneling on an Unkiosked Skydio X10D Controller for more details. 

Closing the Skydio Enterprise Application During Flight

Closing the Skydio Enterprise application while the aircraft is in flight will immediately sever the connection between the controller and the drone. This action will:

  • Trigger the configured contingency behavior on the aircraft
  • Interrupt active controller-to-aircraft communication

After restarting the application:

  • The system may indicate that the aircraft is already in use
  • You may be prompted with an option to commandeer the aircraft

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