Android

How to Split Screen on Android Phones and Tablets

February 5, 2025

Struggling with how to split screen on Android? You’re not alone. Millions of users crave the multitasking efficiency that split-screen mode offers. Whether you’re juggling work and play or managing multiple tasks, mastering split-screen on your Android device can dramatically boost productivity.

Navigating Android’s split-screen feature isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit of know-how. With devices ranging from Samsung Galaxy to Google Pixel, each with its own twist on the user interface, understanding the essentials is crucial.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the practical steps, complete with tips and tricks for customizing your experience. By the end, you’ll be able to switch between apps seamlessly, resize windows, and enhance your multitasking workflow.

Expect to learn not just the basics but also advanced settings within Android’s system updates and app interfaces that will keep your screen management game strong.

How To Split Screen On Android: Quick Workflow

To split the screen on your Android device, follow these steps:

General Steps for Split Screen

Open Recent Apps: Tap the Recent Apps button, which may appear as three vertical lines or a square icon at the bottom of your screen.
Select an App: Find the app you want to use in split screen mode. Long-press the app icon until a menu appears.
Activate Split Screen: Tap on Split Screen or Open in split screen view from the menu that appears.
Choose a Second App: The selected app will occupy the top half of the screen. Below it, you’ll see a list of other apps to choose from. Tap on the second app you want to use.
Adjust Screen Size: You can resize the apps by dragging the dividing line between them.
Exit Split Screen: To close one of the apps, drag the divider to either side of the screen.

Specific Instructions for Samsung Galaxy Devices

Access Recent Apps: Tap the Recent Apps button.
Select an App Icon: Tap the app’s icon at the top of its card.
Open in Split Screen View: Choose Open in split screen view from the menu.
Select Another App: Pick another app from the list presented below.
Resize and Exit: Use the blue bar to adjust sizes and drag it to exit.

Important Notes

Not all apps support split screen mode; some, like certain games, may require full-screen functionality.
The process may vary slightly depending on your device manufacturer and Android version.

Getting Started with Split Screen Mode

maxresdefault How to Split Screen on Android Phones and Tablets

Basic Requirements

Android version compatibility

Before diving into multitasking, it’s essential to know whether your device supports split screen. Android Nougat (7.0) and later versions have this feature. Devices running these versions can utilize this functionality to improve productivity and streamline multitasking.

Device-specific variations

Different devices have variations in how they implement split screen. For instance, Samsung and Pixel devices may have unique ways of accessing and using this feature. Familiarizing yourself with your specific device’s nuances guarantees a smoother experience.

Preparing Your Device

Ensuring apps are open and accessible

Start by making sure the apps you want to use are open and ready. This small step saves time during the transition to split screen. It ensures that all necessary resources are available and easy to reach.

Once your apps are open, accessing the Recent Apps menu is your next move. This menu displays your recently used apps, making it straightforward to choose which ones to place in split screen mode. Navigate through your apps efficiently from here.

Activating Split Screen Mode

Step-by-Step Instructions for General Android Devices

Opening the first app

First, launch the primary app you want to use. This could be your email, a browser, or any other application.

Next, tap the Recent Apps button on your navigation bar. This button is usually represented by a square or a horizontal line. Once in the Recent Apps menu, you’ll see a list of applications you’ve recently opened.

Selecting and activating the split screen option

From the Recent Apps list, locate the app you wish to use alongside the first one. Tap and hold the app’s icon, and select the Split screen option. Your screen will then split, with the first app at the top and the second app at the bottom.

Adjusting the Layout

Moving the divider to resize app windows

Once both apps are open, you can adjust their size by moving the divider. Drag it up or down to allocate more or less space to each app. This gives you control over how much screen real estate each app occupies.

Switching app positions

To switch the positions of the apps, simply drag one of the apps to the opposite position. Some Android devices may require an extra step, such as tapping and holding the app before dragging it.

Samsung Galaxy-Specific Steps

For Samsung Galaxy users, the process starts similarly by accessing the Recent Apps menu. Tap the Recent Apps button to view your currently running apps.

Using the “Open in Split Screen View” option

Tap on the app’s icon you wish to use and select Open in Split Screen View. This will place the app in the top half of the screen. Next, select the second app from the recent apps list or app drawer, automatically placing it in the bottom half.

Practical Applications of Split Screen Mode

Productivity Enhancements

Taking notes while browsing

Handling tasks more efficiently could mean having a note-taking app open while you browse the web for information. Using split screen on your Android device lets you jot down crucial points without toggling back and forth between apps.

Comparing data between apps

When dealing with numbers or any kind of comparative data, split-screen mode is invaluable. Open your spreadsheet on one side and your source document on the other. No more repetitive switching; everything’s in front of you.

Entertainment and Communication

Watching videos while chatting

Enjoy hassle-free multitasking by watching videos while you chat. Use split screen to stream a video on one half of your screen while keeping a messaging app like WhatsApp open on the other. Perfect for staying connected without missing a bit.

Following maps while messaging

Navigating through unfamiliar terrain? Keep Google Maps open while you send your ETA through a messaging app. Split screen ensures you never lose sight of your route while maintaining communication with friends or family.

Organization and Scheduling

Managing calendar and to-do lists simultaneously

Stay on top of your commitments by managing your calendar and to-do lists side by side. Open your Google Calendar on one side and a to-do list app on the other. Easily drag and drop tasks into your schedule without missing out on any details.

Streamlining workflows with multiple apps

Streamline your daily work by running two critical apps simultaneously. Open your email client on one side and your project management tool on the other. Delegate tasks, respond to emails, and keep your workflow smooth without excessive app switching.

Navigating and Exiting Split Screen Mode

Switching Between Apps in Split Screen

Switching between apps in split screen mode can be done easily with gestures or navigation buttons. If you’re using gestures, swipe up from the bottom and hold. This brings up the Recent Apps menu. From there, select another app to replace one of the two currently open apps. If you’re on older versions with navigation buttons, simply tap the Recent Apps button and follow the same steps.

Replacing apps in split screen mode

To replace an app in split screen, access the Recent Apps menu. Find the app you want to switch out, tap and hold its icon, then select Split screen again. This lets you replace one of the apps without exiting split screen mode.

Exiting Split Screen Mode

Dragging the divider to close one app

To close one of the apps and exit split screen mode, drag the divider bar all the way to the top or bottom. This action shuts down one half of the screen, bringing the remaining app into full-screen view. It’s a simple and quick method to go back to single-app usage.

Returning to full-screen mode for a single app

If you want to return to full-screen mode for a single app, drag the divider to the edge of the screen. This consolidates your active window. Using split screen on an Android device becomes straightforward and boosts efficiency once you know these steps in detail.

FAQ on How To Split Screen On Android

How do I enable split-screen mode on my Android device?

To enable split-screen mode, open the first app you want to use. Then, tap the recent apps button and drag the second app to the top of the screen. Your Android device splits the screen, showing both apps simultaneously.

Can all Android apps use split-screen mode?

No, not all Android apps support split-screen mode. Some apps, particularly older ones or heavily customized apps, might not be compatible. If an app doesn’t support split-screen, you’ll see a message stating it’s not available.

How do I exit split-screen mode?

Exiting split-screen mode is simple. Drag the divider bar between the two apps all the way to the top or bottom of the screen. Your Android will revert to displaying the app you kept in focus, exiting the split view.

Can I resize the apps in split-screen mode?

Yes, you can resize the apps in split-screen mode. Use the divider bar between the two apps to adjust their size. Drag it up or down to allocate more screen space to one app and less to the other.

What Android versions support split-screen mode?

Split-screen mode is supported from Android Nougat (7.0) onwards. If your device runs on an older version of Android, you may not have access to this feature. Check your device’s system updates to see if an upgrade is available.

Can I use split-screen mode with the home screen?

No, split-screen mode doesn’t support the home screen. This mode is designed for apps only. When you exit to the home screen, the split-screen session ends, and you’ll need to re-enable it when you return to your apps.

How do I switch between apps in split-screen mode?

You can switch between apps by opening the recent apps screen and selecting a new app. In split-screen mode, this will replace one of the currently active apps, allowing you to multitask effectively on your Android device.

Does split-screen mode drain battery faster?

Yes, using split-screen mode can drain your battery faster, as it requires more processing power to run two apps simultaneously. Keeping an eye on your battery usage will help you manage power more efficiently when using this feature.

What are the best apps to use in split-screen mode?

Productivity apps like email clients, browsers, and note-taking apps work wonderfully in split-screen mode. For example, you can have a document open on one side and your email on the other for seamless multitasking on your Android.

How can I run multiple windows on Android?

To run multiple windows, use the multi-window feature. Activate split-screen mode by following the steps discussed earlier, then open additional apps in each section. This will enhance your productivity and help you multitask efficiently.

Conclusion

Mastering how to split screen on Android is a vital skill for anyone aiming to enhance productivity and multitasking efficiency. Splitting your screen on Android can streamline your workflow, whether you’re using a Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or any other device running Android Nougat or later.

Here’s a quick recap:

Enable Split-Screen: Open an app, tap the recent apps button, and drag another app to the top.
Not All Apps Support: Some apps won’t work in split-screen mode.
Exit with Ease: Drag the divider to the top or bottom to exit.
Adjust Sizes: Resize the split windows using the divider bar.
Battery Usage: Be aware that this feature can drain your battery faster.

This guide aimed to offer practical steps, tips, and tricks for splitting screens on your Android device. The primary goal was to ensure you can seamlessly navigate split-screen mode and fully leverage your device’s multitasking capabilities. Whether you’re managing work tasks or combining apps for better synergy, split-screen is a game-changer.

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Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.