How to Split the Screen on Android – How-To Geek

Here’s a general guide on how to use split-screen multitasking on Android devices:

  1. Check Compatibility: Ensure that your Android device supports split-screen multitasking. This feature is typically available on devices with larger screens (e.g., tablets) and some newer smartphones. It may not be available on older or smaller devices.
  2. Enable Developer Options (Optional): On some devices, the split-screen feature might be hidden in the Developer Options. To check if it’s available there:
    • Go to “Settings” on your Android device.
    • Scroll down to “About phone” or “About tablet” and tap on it.
    • Look for the “Build number” entry and tap it multiple times (usually 7 times) to enable Developer Options. You may need to enter your device’s PIN or pattern to confirm.
    • Go back to the main “Settings” page and find “System” or “Advanced.”
    • Inside “System” or “Advanced,” look for “Developer options” and tap on it.
  3. Activate Split-Screen Mode: The method to activate split-screen mode can vary depending on the device and Android version. Here are some common methods to try:

    Method 1: Using Recent Apps

    • Open the first app you want to use in split-screen.
    • Tap the “Recent Apps” button (usually the square or three-line icon) to view your recent apps.
    • Look for the app you want to use in split-screen and tap and hold its title bar or icon.
    • Choose “Split screen” from the menu that appears. The screen will split, and the app will move to the top or bottom half of the display.
    • Now, select the second app from your recent apps to fill the other half of the screen.

    Method 2: Using App Switcher

    • Open the first app you want to use in split-screen.
    • Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access the App Switcher or Recent Apps screen.
    • Locate the second app you want to use in split-screen.
    • Tap and drag the second app’s title bar or preview window to the top or bottom of the screen.

    Method 3: Using Home Button (Older Android Versions)

    • Open the first app you want to use in split-screen.
    • Tap and hold the “Recent Apps” (square) button.
    • The screen will split, and the app will move to the top or bottom half of the display.
    • Now, tap the second app you want to use from the Recent Apps screen.

Please note that the exact method to enable split-screen mode might differ on your Android device. If none of the methods above work, consult your device’s user manual or search online for specific instructions for your make and model. Additionally, some third-party apps available on the Google Play Store might offer split-screen functionality for devices that lack native support.

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