Do you ever wish you could watch a YouTube video while replying to a text, or copy notes from a browser directly into an email? With your Samsung Galaxy’s Split Screen feature (officially called “Multi Window”), you can do exactly that.
Whether you have the latest Galaxy S24 or an older A-series model, this guide will walk you through the three best ways to run split screen and turn your phone into a productivity powerhouse.
1. The “Recent Apps” Menu (Works on All Models)
This is the standard method that works on virtually every Samsung phone running One UI, with no setup required.
- Launch your first app: Open the app you want to place at the top of the screen (e.g., YouTube).
- Open Recent Apps: Swipe up from the bottom and hold (or tap the ||| navigation button) to view your currently open apps.
- Tap the App Icon: Look for the app’s logo at the very top of its preview card. Tap the icon itself, not the window.
- Select Split Screen: In the dropdown menu, tap “Open in split screen view.”
- Choose your second app: The bottom half of your screen will show your app drawer. Select the second app you want to use.
Note: If you don’t see the second app you need, tap the Magnifying Glass icon to search for it manually.
2. The Two-Finger Swipe (The Fastest Way)
If you multitask often, this gesture is a game-changer. It lets you enter split-screen instantly without opening a menu.
Step 1: Enable the Gesture
First, ensure this setting is turned on:
- Go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Advanced features.
- Tap Multi window.
- Toggle on “Swipe for split screen.”
Step 2: Use the Gesture
- Open an app.
- Swipe up from the very bottom of the screen using two fingers.
- The app will slide up, revealing the app selector for the bottom half.
3. The Edge Panel (Drag & Drop)
For users who love the Samsung sidebar, this is the most intuitive method.
- Open the Edge Panel: Swipe inward from the translucent handle on the side of your screen.
- Find your app: Locate the app you want to multitask with.
- Drag and drop: Press and hold the app icon, then drag it onto the screen.
- Drop it on the top or bottom to trigger split screen.
- Drop it in the centre to open it as a “Pop-up view” (floating window).
Why Split Screen Might Not Work
If you don’t see the option:
- The app doesn’t support multi-window
- You’re using Secure Folder
- The app is locked or restricted
- Your One UI version is outdated
Samsung’s multitasking capabilities are unrivalled in the Android world. By mastering App Pairs and gestures, you can save significant time and stop switching back and forth between windows.
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