Ever wanted to watch a video while texting or take notes while browsing the web? With Android’s split screen feature, you can run two apps side by side and do more at once. Learning how to use split screen in Android can supercharge your productivity and make your phone feel like a mini-computer.
Whether you’re checking emails while watching YouTube or using Maps while chatting, split screen makes multitasking smooth and simple.
📱 What Is Split Screen on Android?
Split screen allows you to open and view two apps on the same screen at once. It’s especially helpful for:
- Comparing information side by side
- Taking notes while watching a video or reading
- Messaging and browsing at the same time
- Watching live streams while keeping up with social media
Not all apps support split screen, but most popular apps like Chrome, YouTube, WhatsApp, and Gmail do.
🛠️ How to Use Split Screen in Android – Step-by-Step
The steps may vary slightly depending on your phone brand and Android version (e.g., Samsung, Xiaomi, Pixel), but the core process is similar.
✅ Step 1: Open the First App
Start by opening the app you want on the top half of your screen. For example, open YouTube.
✅ Step 2: Enter Recent Apps View
Tap the Recent Apps (square or three-line icon) button at the bottom of your screen. On gesture-based navigation, swipe up and hold to enter multitasking view.
✅ Step 3: Tap the App Icon or Options
In the recent apps list, tap the app icon at the top of the app card (or tap the three dots) and choose “Split screen” or “Open in split screen view.”
On some phones like Samsung, long-pressing the app also works.
✅ Step 4: Select the Second App
Once the first app moves to the top half of your screen, choose the second app from your app list or recent apps. It will open in the bottom half.
Boom! You’re now in split screen mode.
✅ Step 5: Resize or Exit Split Screen
You can drag the divider bar between the two apps to adjust their size.
To exit split screen:
- Drag the divider all the way up or down, or
- Tap the Home button, then close one app from Recent Apps.
📱 Phones That Support Split Screen
Most Android phones support it, especially:
- Samsung Galaxy (One UI)
- Google Pixel
- OnePlus
- Xiaomi
- Oppo
- Realme
(Phones must run Android 7.0 Nougat or higher.)
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Read also:-How to Check Room Temperature with Android Phone – Easy & Accurate Guide
💡 Tips to Use Split Screen Efficiently
- Use Chrome and Notes together for research
- Watch YouTube while messaging friends
- Check your calendar while writing emails
- Run WhatsApp and Facebook side by side
⚠️ Limitations of Split Screen
- Some apps don’t support split view (like Instagram or games)
- Not all Android versions have the same steps
- Performance may vary on low-end devices
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is split screen not working on my phone?
Not all apps or phones support split screen. Make sure you’re using Android 7.0+ and the apps you try allow split mode.
Q2: Can I use split screen in landscape mode?
Yes, most phones allow split screen in both portrait and landscape.
Q3: How do I exit split screen fast?
Just drag the divider bar all the way to one side or press the home button and close one app.
Q4: Can I save split screen app combinations?
Some phones like Samsung let you create app pairs that open together in split screen via Edge Panels or App Pair shortcuts.
Q5: Does split screen drain battery faster?
A little, since two apps run at once. But it’s usually minor unless you’re streaming or gaming.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Once you learn how to use split screen in Android, you’ll never go back to using one app at a time. It’s a game-changing feature that helps you get more done, stay organized, and make the most of your phone’s screen space.
Whether you’re managing work tasks or streaming and chatting at the same time, split screen is the productivity tool you didn’t know you needed.
