Modern smartphones Redmi, running on an operating system Android and a proprietary shell MIUI or a new one HyperOS, have wide functionality for multitasking. One of the most requested features is the ability to simultaneously work with two applications on one display. This allows, for example, to watch videos and chat in messenger or compare products in an online store without minimizing current tabs.
Activating Split Screen mode on devices Xiaomi is not always intuitive, since the settings may differ depending on the firmware version and model of the gadget. In this guide, we will look in detail at all the ways to launch multi-window mode, the features of its operation on different screen diagonals and ways to solve typical problems when the function does not work.
What is split-screen mode and how does it work
Split-screen mode is a system function Androidthat allows you to display two active applications simultaneously, dividing the display into two independent areas. The top and bottom parts of the screen work autonomously: you can scroll the feed in one window while video content is playing in another or a file is downloading. Multitasking in this format, it significantly increases the productivity of using a smartphone.
On smartphones Redmi this function is integrated to the system launcher and recent applications menu. It is important to understand that not all apps support this mode. Application developers can programmatically disable working in a window if the app interface is not adapted for reduced resolution or vertical orientation. In such cases, the system may issue a notification about incompatibility.
⚠️ Attention: Split screen mode consumes more RAM and battery power, since the processor is forced to handle the tasks of two applications simultaneously. On budget models with a small amount of RAM, this can lead to a slowdown of the system.
The functionality of the mode also depends on the orientation of the device. In most cases, the split occurs horizontally, with one app occupying the top half and another app occupying the bottom half. However, on tablets or using special developer settings, vertical splitting is also possible, although on standard smartphones Redmi this is rare.
For maximum efficiency, use applications that do not require constant full-screen interaction, such as a browser and calculator, or YouTube and notes.
Activation through the recent applications menu
The most common and convenient way to run two applications simultaneously on Redmi is to use the recent tasks menu. This method works on most versions MIUI i HyperOS without having to delve into deep system settings. The algorithm of actions is simple, but requires a certain sequence of clicks.
First you need to open the first application that you want to place at the top of the screen. After that, minimize it by pressing the Home button or swiping from the bottom up (depending on the type of navigation). Then open the second application. Now you need to go to the recent applications menu by pressing the corresponding square button or by swiping and holding from the bottom edge of the screen.
In the list of running apps that opens, find the card of the first application. It should display a miniature image of the interface. At the top of this card, usually on the right or center, there is an icon in the form of two rectangles or an ellipsis. Clicking on this element will bring up a context menu where you need to select the item Split screen.
- 📱 Open the first application and minimize it.
- 📱 Launch the second application.
- 📱 Go to the recent tasks menu.
- 📱 Click on the menu icon above the application card.
- 📱 Select the split screen mode.
After selecting the mode, the first application will occupy the upper half of the display, and a selection menu for the second application will appear at the bottom. You can select it from the recently used list or find it in the general list of all installed apps. As soon as the second application is launched, the screen will split and you will be able to work with both windows.
☑️ Checking readiness for split screen
Using gestures for quick splitting
For users who value speed and convenience, the company Xiaomi has provided the ability to launch split-screen mode using special gestures. This method allows you not to go to the recent applications menu, but to perform an action directly from the interface of the running app. However, this feature may be hidden in the default settings.
To activate gesture control, you need to go to the system settings. The path usually looks like this: Settings → Additional settings → Buttons and gestures → Switching between applications. In this section you need to find the option related to split screen and enable it. On some firmware versions, this may be called “Long press the menu button” or similar.
After activating gestures, the process of splitting the screen is simplified. You need to open the first app and then long press the Recent Apps (square) button or swipe from the bottom corner of the screen towards the center and hold, depending on the navigation type you choose. The system will automatically minimize the current window to the top and prompt you to select a second app.
⚠️ Attention: If gestures do not work, check whether the “Full screen applications” mode is enabled for a specific app. In this mode, system gestures can be blocked by the developer of the game or video player.
Using gestures is especially convenient on smartphones with a large screen, where it is difficult to reach the top menu elements with one hand. A quick swipe or tap allows you to instantly multitask without interrupting your flow. This makes working with the device more ergonomic and smooth.
Setting through the accessibility menu
If standard methods are not suitable or the split-screen button is not in the recent tasks menu, you can use the accessibility section. This method is universal for many versions Android and guarantees the presence of the function, even if the manufacturer has hidden it in the main interface.
To activate, go to Settings → Additional settings → Accessibility. In the list of available functions, find the item Split screen or Split Screen. Switch the toggle switch to the active position. After this, a floating button or a special shortcut in the quick settings menu (notification curtain) may appear on the screen.
When using the accessibility method, the startup process looks different. You open the first application, then bring up the accessibility menu (by pressing the floating button or using the volume key combination) and select split mode. The screen will split, and you will only have to launch the second application.
| Activation method | Difficulty | Access speed | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recent applications menu | Low | Medium | High |
| Navigation gestures | Medium | High | Depends on the MIUI version |
| Special features | High | Low | Universal |
| Side panel | Low | High | Only for supported applications |
This method is often used by advanced users who customize their smartphone to their specific needs. It allows you to bypass some software limitations of the launcher, but requires additional actions for each launch of the mode.
Working with the sidebar and floating windows
In modern shells HyperOS and recent versions MIUI a sidebar function has appeared, which enhances multitasking capabilities. It allows you to launch applications as floating windows or immediately switch to split-screen mode by dragging the app icon onto the work area.
To use this feature, you must first activate the sidebar in settings: Settings → Advanced settings → Sidebar. Turn on the toggle switch and select the applications that will appear in the quick access list. After that, when using any compatible application, you can bring up the panel by swiping from the edge of the screen.
Drag an application icon from the sidebar to the screen automatically launches split-screen mode, if the application supports this function. If you simply click on the icon, the app will open as a small floating window on top of the current content. This is convenient for a calculator, voice recorder or instant messenger.
What to do if the sidebar does not appear?
Make sure that you swipe from the very edge of the screen. Also check that Full Screen mode is not enabled for the current application, as it may block the appearance of system interface elements.
Floating windows can be resized, moved around the display, and minimized to the edge of the screen, turning them into a small tab. This creates the effect of true multitasking, when you can work with three or more applications at the same time, although it is more convenient to actively interact with only two.
Why split screen does not work: the main reasons
Often users are faced with a situation where the split screen function is not activated or does not work correctly. The most common reason is lack of support from the application itself. Social networks, banking applications and some games programmatically block work in multi-window mode for security reasons or interface features.
Another common problem is the lack of RAM. If there are many heavy processes running in the background, the system may force one of the windows to close when attempting to split. It is also worth checking your display settings: some themes or third-party launchers may conflict with standard functions MIUI.
- 🚫 The application does not support multi-window mode.
- 🚫 There is not enough free RAM.
- 🚫 Conflict with the installed theme design.
- 🚫 Outdated version of system software.
If the problem occurs systemically and affects all applications, it is recommended to check for updates for the operating system. Manufacturers often release patches that correct errors in the interface. As a last resort, you can try resetting accessibility settings or clearing the system launcher cache.
⚠️ Attention: The interface and location of settings may vary slightly depending on the version MIUI or HyperOS. If you do not find the item you need, use the search in the settings by entering the request “Split screen”.
If a particular application does not open in split screen mode, this is a limitation of the app developer itself, and not a malfunction of your smartphone.
Tips for effective use multitasking
To get the most out of split-screen mode, it's important to choose the right pairings of apps. The ideal combination is to watch video content together with a text editor or browser. For example, you can watch a training video on YouTube and at the same time take notes in the application Notes.
Pay attention to the ability to resize windows. There is a separator bar between two active applications. By dragging it up or down, you can give more space to the application you are currently working with. This allows you to flexibly customize the workspace for your current tasks.
To exit split-screen mode, simply drag the dividing bar to the very top or bottom of the display. You can also press the Home button, which will minimize both apps, or use the close button that appears when you tap the separator. This allows you to quickly return to the standard mode of using your smartphone.
Use split screen mode when booking tickets or hotels: keep a search site in one window, and a map or calendar in the other to check dates.
Is it possible to change the size of windows in split screen mode?
Yes, you can change window proportions. To do this, touch and hold the gray separator bar between apps, then drag it up or down to enlarge the area of one of the apps.
Why do some apps not open in split screen?
It depends on the app developer. Many apps, especially games and banking services, do not support multi-window mode due to interface features or security requirements.
How to exit split-screen mode on Redmi?
Drag the dividing line all the way up or down to close one of the windows. Or press the Home button to minimize both applications at once.
Does split screen affect the speed of the phone?
Yes, running two active applications at the same time increases the load on the processor and RAM, which can lead to faster battery drain and a slight decrease in performance.
Does split screen work in landscape mode? position?
On most Redmi smartphones, split-screen mode only works in portrait (vertical) orientation. In landscape mode, this feature is usually unavailable or does not work correctly.