Advanced player management features, such as Remote View, Remote Control, Kiosk Mode, remote reboot, and remote software updates, require privileges that the Android operating system does not grant to regular apps. The Signage Platform Module (SPM) is the OnSign component that grants your Android Player these privileges. This article explains what the SPM does, how it works, and how to identify the correct version for your device.
How It Works
The SPM is an additional APK that you install alongside the OnSign Player app. It does not replace the Player app or change how content is played, it only extends it with system-level permissions.
The SPM requires OnSign Player app version 6.0.0 or later. Older versions do not support the SPM extension.
Android's permission model reserves certain commands, such as installing or removing apps and rebooting the device, for apps signed with the same key used to sign the device's firmware. Since OnSign does not control that key, each SPM is built and signed individually for a specific Android manufacturer or hardware line. This is why there is no single, universal SPM file, and why installing the wrong SPM for your hardware will not work.
Once the correct SPM is installed and running alongside the Player app, it unlocks the following features on your Dashboard:
- Remote View – see what is currently playing on the device
- Remote Control – tap or click on the device's screen remotely
- Remote reboot and shutdown
- Remote software updates
- Extended logs for troubleshooting
Note: Rooting the device has the same effect as installing an SPM. If your device is rooted, OnSign detects this automatically and enables the same advanced features without any additional installation.
Important: Without a matching SPM and without root access, none of the features listed above are available. This does not affect regular content playback, or OnSign's own interactivity features, such as triggers, which work independently of the SPM.
The Different SPM Versions
Because the SPM depends on how the device manufacturer signs its firmware, there are several SPM variants. You can browse all available builds on the SPM download page. Generic SPM and SPM DPC are also available for download on that same page, alongside the manufacturer-specific builds. Use the most specific one available for your hardware, since more specific versions unlock more features.
| SPM | When to Use | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer-specific SPM | Recommended whenever your manufacturer has a build listed on the SPM download page, it provides the full set of features | How to Install the SPM |
| Samsung SPM | Always, for Samsung devices | Samsung SPM |
| Generic SPM | This is the generic open source Android SPM. Use this if your device is based on the Android AOSP. | How to Install the SPM |
| SPM DPC | Last resort, only when no other option works | SPM DPC Installation |
Which Version to Choose
- Check the builds on the SPM download page. If your device's manufacturer is listed, follow How to Install the SPM, most manufacturers use this same method. Samsung, NovaStar Taurus, and Sony Bravia install differently, see their dedicated guides instead.
- If you can't find your device listed, or you're not sure of the manufacturer, try the Generic SPM.
- If the Generic SPM does not work on your device, install SPM DPC as a last resort. It has limited functionality, but it's the most you can do when no other option works.