Android has evolved remarkably in recent years to transform your mobile phone or tablet into a true productivity tool. Although many customization layers have included their own solution for the split screen, there are still devices, system versions, or apps that don't have a native method, or the existing methods aren't intuitive or advanced enough for those who require additional features. Therefore, in addition to the native function, we show you best apps to split screen on android and get the most out of multitasking, choosing the one that best suits your needs.
Android's native split screen: how to use it and its limitations
The operating system has incorporated, for several versions, the split screen option, although it seems little known to many users. With it, you can split the screen in two halves and use two different apps simultaneously. This feature is perfect for:
- Taking notes while watching a video on YouTube.
- Read a PDF document while browsing in the browser.
- Reply to WhatsApp messages without having to leave your calendar.
Steps to enable native split screen (may vary depending on the brand and version of Android):
- Open the two applications you want to use at the same time.
- Access the screen of Recent Apps (by swiping down or using the square button, depending on the navigation system).
- Long press on the first app icon and select Split screen in the drop-down menu.
- Select the second app so that it takes up the other half of the screen.
The splitter bar can be slid to adjust the size of each half. Not all apps are compatible. If you try this with an app that doesn't support it, you'll see an error message.
Advantages of native split screen:
- You don't need to install anything extra.
- Compatible with most current models and brands.
Main limitations:
- It does not allow you to choose the orientation of the division except on some devices or versions.
- Compatibility is not complete: some apps, especially games or streaming apps, cannot be displayed in split mode.
- There is no floating button or customizable shortcut.
Why use specialized split-screen apps?
The specialized applications Split screen on Android comes in handy where the native feature falls short. They're ideal if you're looking for extreme customization, manage floating windows, activate splitting with a single tap, or even open double instances of the same app in some cases.
- Allow advanced multitasking: Keep two chats open, read and reply to emails, keep browsing and editing documents at the same time…
- Personalization.: Adjusts the color, size, opacity, and behavior of control elements.
- Shortcuts and gestures: Start the function without entering complex menus.
- Extended Compatibility: They work on older phones, Huawei, Honor models, or brands where native split screen may be limited.
- Floating windows and mosaicsBeyond just splitting the screen in two, some apps allow you to open multiple windows (collage style).
Split Screen
Application Split Screen It's designed for those looking to split the screen quickly and easily on any Android device. You can place two photos, videos, or any other content on each half of the screen (left/right, top/bottom, as you prefer). It operates stably and clearly, displaying high-quality images and content.
Available for most devices, including Huawei and Honor through the Aurora Store, this app stands out for its lightness and an intuitive interface that makes daily work easier.
- How to use: Open the app, select the two items to display (images, videos, apps) and choose the location for each.
- Key advantage: Configurable division in half and possibility of choosing orientation.
Split Screen is highly recommended If you want a direct and efficient solution for multitasking without losing fluidity on your device.
Split screen: double window to realize
Split screen: double window to realize It adds a plus compared to other alternatives: it includes a floating button, allowing you to quickly split the screen without intermediate steps.
- added functionality: The floating button can be customized (color, opacity), and gives you immediate access to the split.
- Minimum resource consumption: Only requires 10-15 MB of memory.
How to use: Open the app, select files or apps (including DOC documents, PDFs, videos, images, etc.), and choose the screen layout. It also allows you to use several file formats that other apps don't support.
This application stands out for its usability and is optimized to work in the background without slowing down the phone.
Split Screen with Direct Access
Split Screen with Direct Access It stands out for offering a shortcut widget. This widget is ideal for those who need to open the dual screen instantly, and it's easily configurable from your phone's desktop.
- Includes multi-screen: You can create mosaics or collages of apps and images.
- Customizable interface: Suitable for all audiences, both experts and beginners.
The app is free but allows you to support the developer with donations. It has low resource consumption and is stable even with multiple tasks open. It has over 50.000 downloads and is a favorite for its simplicity and power.
Easy Split Screen
Easy Split Screen It's a highly rated app for those who want to create two windows or "dual windows" on any compatible Android phone. It's extremely intuitive and stands out for its:
- Offer customizable floating button (size, color and opacity).
- Allows you to easily move, minimize, enlarge, or close the floating window.
- Configure shortcuts from notifications or quick gestures.
- Vibration on/off the function, to know if it is operating.
- Support for most apps that support split screen.
Using Easy Split Screen, you can work with two apps simultaneously, check and reply to emails, view photos, edit documents, or maintain an active chat while browsing.
Floating Apps (multitasking)
Floating Apps takes the split-screen concept to the next level with the floating windowsYou can open multiple apps in movable windows, resize them, and position them anywhere on the desktop.
- Allows real multitasking, with access to background apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, email, or browsers.
- You can split it from top to bottom or side to side and combine different apps.
- Interactive tutorial to learn all the advanced features.
Unlike other apps, Floating Apps can create a desktop-like experience, with multiple apps open and accessible from any screen.
Dual Screen Browser – Multiple screens optimized for browsing
Dual Screen Browser It's especially interesting for those who want to split their web browsing into multiple windows. It allows you to have up to four windows open simultaneously to view platforms like Twitch, YouTube, Google Play, news, etc.
- Compatible with browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox, Opera and other integrated Play Store browsers.
- Supports opening multiple processes in parallel.
- Allows you to work or view content from different sources at the same time.
It's ideal for those who enjoy multitasking, specifically when it comes to web browsing, watching multiple videos, or news in parallel.
Other recommended apps for split screen on Android
In addition to those mentioned, there are other popular alternatives compiled by major Android-focused websites that may be useful depending on your needs.
- Multi Window Manager: It allows you to manage multiple windows and applications, although it requires the device to be rooted to access all advanced features.
- Multi-window split screen: Provides quick access to apps from a sidebar and allows you to open two apps simultaneously, although it can occasionally cause some apps to freeze on less powerful devices.
- Multi-Window Launcher: Simulates the experience of a Mac desktop, allowing you to have multiple apps on the main screen and switch between them seamlessly.
- Displays – Multi-Window Manager: Provides quick access to split screen mode and allows you to adjust the size of the areas into which the screen is divided.
- Multi-window: Ideal for those who want to add apps to a sidebar to launch them in multi-window or collage mode.
While most are available on the Play Store, some may require accessibility or root permissions to operate in their most advanced mode.
Best video players for Android
Advanced Tips for Efficient Multitasking on Android
- Use custom gesturesMany manufacturers allow you to set up quick gestures to activate split screen.
- Take advantage of the “Picture in Picture” feature: To play videos or maps in a floating window while using other apps.
- Customize shortcuts from the notification bar with apps like Split Screen Shortcut.
- On Motorola and other mobiles, you can set a specific gesture from Settings> Gestures to split screen with a simple swipe.
- Remember that only compatible apps will work properly.; Apps that don't support multi-window will display a warning or simply not enter split mode.
Split screen on Android, whether through its native feature or advanced apps, boosts your productivity and allows you to enjoy true mobile multitasking. Experiment with the options that best suit your model and needs, get the most out of your device, and take mobile efficiency to the next level.
