- The split-screen function allows you to run two applications simultaneously to optimize productivity.
- The activation process varies slightly depending on the device brand, operating system version, and navigation type (gestures or buttons).
- It is possible to adjust the size of the windows and use browsers like Chrome in dual mode to compare information.
- Both Google and Apple ecosystems offer native multitasking solutions without the need for external software.
I'm sure it's happened to you a thousand times: you're watching a super interesting video on YouTube and, suddenly, you get a WhatsApp message that can't wait. The normal thing to do would be to close one app to open the other, but that's a total waste of time and sometimes it's downright maddening to be constantly jumping from one window to another. Luckily, there's split-screen multitasking , a fantastic tool that lets you take full advantage of your device's hardware.
This feature isn't exactly new, but it's been greatly improved over the years. Thanks to modern phones having more RAM and more powerful processors , performance is smooth and doesn't freeze even with two resource-intensive processes running simultaneously. It's the ideal solution for those of us who need to be productive, whether it's comparing data at work or simply enjoying multiple social media platforms at the same time.
Steps to activate split screen on Android
Although each manufacturer has its own quirks and the menus may vary slightly depending on the customization layer, the general process is very similar on almost all devices. To begin, you must have the applications you want to merge open. Then, access the recent apps menu; this is done by tapping the square button at the bottom or by swiping up and holding your finger if you're using modern navigation.
- Option using the icon: In the recent apps view, look for the app icon at the top of its window. Press and hold or click that icon and select the option «Split screen» or the symbol of two squares.
- Selection of the second app: Once the first app moves to the top, choose the second app you want to use from the list and it will automatically be placed below.
- Display settings: You can drag the center bar to give more space to one app than another, or to rotate the phone to use landscape mode and gain visibility.
If you have an ASUS device, the process is very similar: open recent apps, tap the app icon, select "Split top," and choose the second app. You can even use the switcher bubble to quickly reverse the order of the windows.
The dilemma of gestures versus buttons
This is where things get a little tricky. If you use gesture navigation on Android Pie or later, activating split-screen can feel a bit clunkier and slower . While with traditional buttons you simply pressed and held the square, with gestures you have to swipe up, reach the top of the screen, and then tap the app icon. This difference in steps might lead some users to prefer switching back to the classic navigation bar for greater speed.
Advanced trick: Two Chrome windows at once
If you need to compare travel prices or read two different articles, you can work wonders with your browser. While Chrome is in split-screen mode, tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner and select "New Window ." Suddenly, you'll have two separate Chrome tabs , each occupying half of the screen, which is fantastic for quickly comparing information.
How to disable multitasking mode
When you're finished and want to return to normal, you have several easy options. The quickest is to drag the divider bar all the way up or down until one of the apps disappears and the other is full screen. You can also close one of the apps from the recent apps view or, on some specific models, simply press the home button to reset the view.
Multitasking on Apple (iOS) devices
In the Apple ecosystem, this feature is known as Split View and is primarily available on iPads (from the 5th generation, Air 2, and mini 4 onward). The process is quite intuitive: open the first app and then swipe up from the bottom edge to bring up the Dock. From there, press and hold the second app and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen. The iPad will then split the screen, allowing you to manage two tasks simultaneously with ease.
Regardless of the system you use, mastering these tools allows you to optimize your time and avoid the distractions of constantly switching between apps. Whether it's adjusting window sizes, using gesture navigation, or leveraging the power of iPads, split-screen mode transforms your phone into a much more efficient and versatile workstation . Share this tip so more users can learn how to do it.