- Split screen allows you to use two apps simultaneously and customize the size to suit your needs.
- There are different methods and gestures to activate split screen depending on the make and version of the device.
- Not all apps support split screen, and some Android skins offer extra features to take advantage of it.
Android offers the possibility of using two applications at the same time in split screen, a feature designed for those who want to increase their productivity, manage multiple tasks at once, or simply enjoy a more efficient multitasking experience on their mobile device. This feature, although native for several versions, remains unknown to many users and may vary slightly in access and operation depending on the manufacturer, Android version, the presence of navigation gestures, or the physical buttons on the system.
What is split screen on Android and what is it for?
La split screen On Android, it's a built-in feature that allows two apps to be displayed simultaneously on the same screen, dividing the available space so both are fully functional and independent. This mode is especially useful for:
- Copy information or transfer data between two apps (for example, between the browser and a notes app).
- Follow a video call while consulting a document or browsing the internet.
- Write messages or emails without having to switch between applications.
- Viewing media or videos while browsing another platform.
not all apps They support split-screen mode, although most popular apps have already integrated this functionality.
Steps to activate split screen on any Android phone
The procedure for enabling split screen may vary depending on your system version and manufacturer's customization layer, but these general steps will allow you to enjoy this feature on most Android phones and tablets:
- Start the first application you want to use.
- Open the view of recent apps. This can be done in two ways:
- If you use virtual buttons, tap the recent apps icon (square or three lines).
- If you use gesture navigation, swipe up from the bottom and hold.
- In the recent apps list, press and hold the icon or preview of the app you want to pin to the top or left of the screen (depending on the orientation).
- Choose Split screen from the pop-up menu.
- The selected app will occupy the top half (or side). Now select the second application from the recent apps list or from the launcher.
- Both apps will appear sharing the screen. You'll be able to adjust size dragging the center divider bar to your liking.
Some manufacturers offer Shortcuts, such as long pressing the recents button, or even custom gestures, especially in layers like MIUI (Xiaomi), One UI (Samsung) or OxygenOS (OnePlus).
Alternatives depending on the brand and Android version
Although the method explained is usually the standard one, Each brand may have specific variations:
- Xiaomi (MIUI): You can split the screen from the recents view by tapping on the specific option or using configurable gestures.
- Samsung (One UI): From the recent view, tap the app icon and select Split screen view.
- Huawei: Often, just holding down the recents button is enough.
- OPPO, Realme, OnePlus: On certain layers, it allows you to split the screen by sliding three fingers upwards.
On devices with physical navigation button (the older ones), a long press on the square button usually also activates split screen.
Advanced gestures and tricks to take advantage of multitasking
Android allows advanced gestures to activate multitasking, but not all devices include them by default. Some custom layers, such as those based on ColorOS (Realme, OPPO and OnePlus), allow you to activate the split screen by swiping three fingers upwards on the app in use. To find out if your phone supports this gesture, go to the Settings > Advanced Features and search for “split screen.”
Also exist third-party applications such as "Split Screen Shortcut" that offer additional options if your phone lacks this feature or if you want faster access to notifications, floating buttons, or even quick settings. Keep in mind that these apps may require advanced accessibility permissions.
Split Screen Compatibility and Limitations
Not all apps support split screen. Some apps, especially gaming apps or certain video apps, block multitasking. By design or security policies, when you try to split screen with one of these apps, the system displays a warning and doesn't allow you to activate it.
The Behavior may vary depending on screen orientationOn mobile phones, it's usually vertical (up and down), while on tablets it can be horizontal (left and right), making it better suited to multitasking.
Another aspect to take into account is the using the virtual keyboardWhen the split-screen keyboard is activated, it may take up a large portion of the screen on one side, obscuring the view of the app below. Additionally, some apps, like YouTube, allow you to continue playing content while using another app on the other side.
Additional options: two browser instances and specific tricks
Some applications, such as Google Chrome y Brave, allow you to open two separate split-screen windows, further increasing your productivity. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open Chrome and enable split screen mode.
- Within Chrome, tap on the three-dot menu and select New window so that each instance occupies half of the screen.
Not all browsers support this feature (for example, Microsoft Edge does not support two instances of split screen).
Customizing and adjusting split screen
Once you have both apps open in split screen, you can adjust the size of each app Swipe the center bar. Move the splitter up or down (or horizontally to the sides) to give an app more space as needed. It's important to know that if the splitter bar is completely moved to one side, the corresponding app will close and return to full-screen, single-app mode.
The app layout is maintained as long as you don't completely close them, and you can even switch to a secondary app using the recents bar without leaving split-screen mode (on most devices).
How to exit split-screen mode on Android
When you want to go back to using just one app, exiting split-screen mode is easy:
- Drag the divider bar all the way up, down, or sideways, depending on the orientation, until an app fills the entire screen.
- Hit the start buttonThe apps will go into the background but will retain their state for when you decide to use them again.
- You can also exit from the navigation menu if your device displays a specific split-screen icon.
Tips and recommendations to take advantage of split screen
- Use split screen on devices with large screens for a better experience.
- Please note that the performance of this feature depends on the power of your device and the amount of RAM available.
- Check app compatibility before attempting to split screen, especially with games or streaming apps.
- Experiment with advanced gestures or customizations offered by your manufacturer's layer for faster access.
Multitasking on Android allows you to work, study or enjoy your free time in a much more versatile and flexible way.Mastering split screen, knowing the shortcuts by manufacturer, and taking advantage of compatible apps are key to getting the most out of your device. If you'd like to learn more about how to split-screen two apps on Android, be sure to check out our dedicated tutorial or visit the section. how to split screen on android. Feel free to share this trick with those who don't yet know all the secrets of Android, and keep exploring new ways to do more with your phone or tablet.