Modern smartphones have sufficient computing power to cope with several tasks simultaneously. However, the standard mode of operation assumes that the user focuses on only one application at a particular moment in time. This is often ineffective, especially if you need to reply to a message without closing the video, or copy text from the browser into notes. The ability to run two windows on one display turns your gadget into a powerful tool for work and study.
The Split Screen function is built into the operating system Android starting with version 7.0 Nougat. Depending on the manufacturer of your device, be it Samsung, Xiaomi or Google Pixel, the methods for activating this mode may differ slightly. We will look at all available methods, including the use of proprietary shells and third-party utilities, so that you can make the most of your display space.
In this article we will analyze in detail the action algorithms for different use cases. You'll learn how to pin the top window so it doesn't close accidentally, and which apps work best in this mode. We will also touch on the topic of connecting external monitors, since for some users the concept of “two screens” means expanding the workspace beyond the main display of the smartphone.
Built-in split screen mode (Split Screen)
The easiest way to organize the work of two apps simultaneously is to use the native function of the operating system. This method does not require the installation of additional software and works on most devices running Android 7.0 and higher. The essence of the method is that the physical screen is divided into two independent zones, each of which displays its own application.
To activate the mode, you must first open the first application that you plan to use. Then you should go to the recent applications menu. This is usually done by swiping from bottom to top with a delay or by pressing a special navigation button in the form of a square. In the list that opens, find the icon of the desired application and tap it.
In the context menu that appears, select Split screen or Split screen. The active window will then shrink and occupy the top half of the display. A list of other running apps will appear at the bottom. Select the second app and it will take up the remaining space. Now you can simultaneously use, for example, YouTube and Telegram.
- 📱 On devices with navigation buttons, hold the "Menu" (square) button to immediately activate splitting.
- 🔄 Change the size of windows by dragging the black separator bar up or down.
- ❌ To exit the mode, drag the dividing line to the very edge of the screen.
Some applications, such as games or video players in full screen mode, may not support the split screen feature. In this case, the system will notify you that the action cannot be performed.
It is important to note that some application functions may not work correctly in split screen mode. For example, the video player can automatically pause the video when you change focus to the bottom window. It depends on the implementation of the specific software developers. However, this method is ideal for working with documents, browsers and instant messengers.
Features of working on Samsung devices (DeX and Pop-up view)
The company Samsung has implemented some of the most advanced tools for multitasking in its shell One UI. In addition to the standard split screen, users of flagship models get access to the Samsung DeX mode and pop-up window function. These tools allow you to create a real desktop-like work environment.
Mode Pop-up view (pop-up window) allows you to launch an application in a floating window on top of other apps. This is especially convenient when you need to quickly reply to a message or look at a map without minimizing the main application. To activate this feature, open the recent applications menu, click on the application icon at the top and select Open in a pop-up window.
For owners of compatible smartphones and tablets Samsung mode available DeX. When you connect the device to the monitor via a cable USB-C to HDMI or via a wireless network, the interface transforms into something like a Windows desktop. You can launch multiple windows, resize them and move them around the external display screen using your smartphone as a touchpad.
In DeX mode supports working with a mouse and keyboard, which significantly increases productivity. You can drag files between windows, use keyboard shortcuts to copy and paste. This turns your phone into a full-fledged laptop replacement for tasks related to text, spreadsheets and web surfing.
⚠️ Note: DeX mode is not available on all Samsung models. This feature is usually found in the flagship Galaxy S and Note series, as well as in the Tab S series tablets. Check the specifications of your device before trying to connect to an external display.
Setting up multitasking on Xiaomi, Huawei and other brands
Android smartphone manufacturers often modify the standard interface by adding their own gestures and menus. On devices Xiaomi (shell MIUI or HyperOS) and Huawei (shell EMUI or HarmonyOS) the logic of the split screen may differ from stock Android. Understanding these nuances will help avoid confusion when setting up.
In the shell MIUI the recent applications menu is often used to activate split screen, but with a slight difference. After opening the list of running apps, you need to press and hold the application preview until additional control buttons appear. Among them there will be an icon with two rectangles, responsible for launching the second window. An alternative way is to use a special gesture if it is enabled in the settings.
Devices Huawei and Honor offer the Parallel Apps or Split Screen feature through the control panel. By swiping from the corner of the screen or using three fingers to split (the gesture may vary depending on the firmware version), you can instantly split the display in half. In the settings, you can even set specific pairs of applications that will launch together automatically.
| Brand / Shell | Main gesture / Action | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Android (Pixel) | Hold the "Menu" button | Minimalistic interface, strict 50/50 split |
| Samsung (One UI) | Recents menu -> Application icon | Support for pop-up windows and DeX mode |
| Xiaomi (MIUI/HyperOS) | Holding previews in the task menu | Ability to save pairs of applications in the dock |
| Huawei (EMUI/HarmonyOS) | Swipe from a corner or 3 fingers | Flexible adjustment of the size of windows and parallel tasks |
Secret setting for developers
In the "For Developers" menu you can find the item "Force to allow resizing of actions". Enabling this option will allow you to run in split-screen mode even those applications that do not officially support this feature. However, the interface of such apps may not display correctly.
If standard methods do not work, check your system settings. In the section Settings → Accessibility → Split screen (path may vary) you can find switches that activate this function. Sometimes manufacturers disable it by default on models with a small amount of RAM to save resources.
Using third-party applications to split the screen
In cases where the built-in capabilities of the system are limited or the device is running on an old version Android, third-party applications from the store Google Playcome to the rescue. These utilities emulate split-screen functionality by creating their own containers to run apps. They are especially useful for budget smartphones, where the Split Screen function has been cut out by the manufacturer.
One of the popular solutions is the application Split Screen Shortcut. It creates a widget on the desktop that, when clicked, opens a menu for selecting two applications. After confirmation, the system tries to start them in split mode. Another option is XMultiWindow, which offers more advanced window and gesture control settings.
It is worth considering that third-party applications do not have the same deep access to the system as native functions. This may result in increased battery consumption or unstable operation of some apps. In addition, the interface of such utilities may look alien to the overall style of your system.
- 🚀 Split Screen Shortcut —a simple solution for quickly launching pairs of applications.
- ⚙️ XMultiWindow —provides advanced settings and support for older versions of Android.
- 📂 Floating Apps —creates multiple floating windows for the calculator, browser, and notes.
⚠️ Attention: When using third-party split-screen apps, be careful with entering confidential data (passwords, banking applications). Some unofficial utilities may have access to the contents of the screen, which creates potential security risks.
Connecting a second physical monitor to a smartphone
If by the phrase “run 2 screens” you meant connecting an external display to a smartphone, then this task is also completely solvable. Modern phones with a port USB Type-C often support video output via standard DisplayPort Alt Mode. This allows you to broadcast the image to a TV, monitor or projector.
To connect, you will need an adapter cable USB-C to HDMI or a docking station. Connect one end of the cable to your smartphone and the other to your monitor. In most cases, the image will appear automatically. Depending on the phone model, you may see screen duplication (mirroring) or desktop expansion (mode Desktop).
Desktop expansion mode is available mainly on flagship devices (Samsung DeX, Moto Ready For, LG Screen+). In this case, the main screen of the smartphone can be used as a touchpad, and a full-fledged interface with windows will unfold on the external monitor. You can drag and drop applications between screens, creating a truly multi-screen workstation.
☑️ Preparing to connect an external monitor
It is important to check the technical specifications of your device before purchasing a cable. Not all ports support video signal transmission; some are intended for charging and data transmission only. use wireless technologies such as USB-C support video signal transmission; some are only for charging and data transfer. If connection fails, try using wireless technologies such as Chromecast or Miracast, although they usually only work in screen mirroring mode.
Problem solving and frequently asked questions
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users may encounter a number of difficulties when setting up two screens. Most often, problems are related to incompatibility. applications, lack of RAM or specific firmware features. Understanding the reasons for these failures will help you quickly return multitasking to a working state.
If applications close immediately after splitting the screen, most likely your device does not have enough RAM. Try closing all background processes before activating the mode. Also, make sure that both applications are updated to the latest version, as developers are constantly optimizing the software to work in it. multi-window mode.
In some cases, the dividing bar may be inactive, and you will not be able to resize the windows. This limitation is imposed by the developer of one of the running applications. Try replacing one of the windows with another, simpler application, for example, a browser or calculator, to check the functionality of the function.
The stability of the split-screen mode directly depends on the amount of free RAM. For comfortable operation of two heavy applications, it is recommended to have at least 4-6 GB of free RAM.
Why is there no “Split Screen” button on my phone?
The lack of a function can be caused by several reasons: an outdated version of Android (below 7.0), a limitation on the part of the manufacturer for budget models with a small amount of memory, or disabling the function in the developer settings. Check the system version and availability of updates.
Is it possible to run three applications at the same time?
The standard Split Screen mode supports only two applications. However, on Samsung devices with the Pop-up view function, you can open a third application in a floating window on top of two separated ones. allow you to create a grid of several windows.
Does dual screen mode affect the rate of battery drain?
Yes, running two active applications at the same time increases the load on the processor and screen, which leads to faster battery consumption. It is recommended to connect the device to a charger when multitasking for a long time.
How to save the pair. applications for quick launch?
On some devices (for example, Xiaomi or Samsung), after splitting the screen, you can save the created pair as a shortcut on the desktop. To do this, find the save icon in the separator panel or in the recent applications menu. Next time, clicking on the shortcut will immediately open both applications in the desired mode.