Split-screening on an iPhone isn't quite the same as on a desktop or laptop. There's no single "split screen" button. Instead, the functionality is achieved through a feature called Slide Over and, for compatible apps, Split View. This guide will walk you through both methods, clarifying the differences and limitations.
What is Slide Over on iPhone?
Slide Over lets you use a second app in a smaller, resizable window that overlays your main app. This is ideal for quick tasks or checking information while keeping your primary app open. It’s the closest iPhone gets to a traditional split-screen experience.
How to use Slide Over:
- Open the app you want as your primary app. This will be the app that remains in the main view.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen. This will bring up the App Switcher (or Dock, if you have it set that way in settings).
- Hold and drag the app icon you want to use in Slide Over to the top of the screen. Release the icon when you see the small app window appear.
- Resize the Slide Over window: You can adjust the size by dragging the top edge of the app window up or down.
- To close Slide Over, swipe the app window off the screen.
What is Split View on iPhone?
Split View expands on Slide Over, allowing you to have two apps side-by-side in a truly split-screen experience. However, this functionality is limited to iPadOS and only works with specific apps that support this mode. It is not available on all iPhones.
How to use Split View (on compatible devices and apps):
- Open the first app you want to use in Split View.
- Using Slide Over, open the second app. Follow the steps above.
- If the app supports Split View, you'll see a small handle at the top of the Slide Over window. Drag this handle to expand the Slide Over app to fill half the screen, creating a split-screen view.
- Resize the Split View windows: Drag the divider between the apps to adjust the size of each app's area.
- To close Split View, drag the divider to one edge of the screen.
Can I use Split Screen on all iPhone apps?
No. While Slide Over works with most apps, Split View functionality is dependent on the app developers enabling it within their applications. Not all apps are designed to support Split View.
Does Split Screen work on all iPhones?
No. Split View, the true side-by-side split-screen experience, is primarily a feature of iPads running iPadOS. While Slide Over is available on iPhones, the more advanced Split View functionality may not be. Check your device's operating system compatibility.
How do I multitask on my iPhone without split screen?
Besides Slide Over and (potentially) Split View, iPhones offer other multitasking features:
- App Switcher: Quickly switch between recently used apps.
- Picture-in-Picture (PiP): Watch videos or participate in FaceTime calls while using other apps.
- Background App Refresh: Allows certain apps to update in the background.
This comprehensive guide should provide you with a clearer understanding of how to utilize the available split-screen like features on your iPhone, clarifying the limitations and highlighting alternative multitasking options. Remember that while a true split-screen is limited, Slide Over provides a powerful way to enhance productivity on your iPhone.
