Splitting your iPad screen into two, also known as Split View, allows you to use two different apps side-by-side simultaneously, significantly enhancing your multitasking capabilities. This feature is invaluable for productivity, research, and creative workflows.
What is iPad Split View?
iPad Split View is a powerful multitasking feature that enables you to display and interact with two applications at the same time on your iPad's screen. Instead of switching between apps, you can have them open next to each other, making tasks like taking notes while watching a video, referencing a webpage while writing an email, or comparing images much more efficient.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Split View
Activating and managing Split View on your iPad is straightforward, primarily utilizing the Multitasking menu.
Initiating Split View with an Open App
To begin with an app already open on your screen:
- Open an App: Launch the first application you wish to use in Split View (e.g., Procreate, Safari, Notes).
- Access Multitasking Menu: Look for the Multitasking button, which appears as three dots (...), located at the very top of your iPad's screen. Tap this button.
- Select Split View: A menu will appear with three options: Center, Split View, and Slide Over. Tap Split View (the icon with two rectangles side-by-side).
- Shift App: Your current app will slide to one side of the screen, revealing your Home Screen or App Library on the other side. This prepares the screen for the second app.
Opening a Second App
Once the first app is moved to one side, you'll need to select the second app:
- Choose Second App: From your Home Screen or the App Library, tap on the icon of the second app you wish to open. For example, if you moved Procreate to one side, you could then tap Photos to open it on the other.
- Complete Split View: The selected app will immediately open on the remaining side of the screen, establishing your Split View setup.
Alternatively, you can drag an app from the Dock into Split View:
- Open an App: Have your first app open.
- Open the Dock: Swipe up slightly from the bottom edge of the screen to reveal the Dock.
- Drag to Edge: Touch and hold the second app's icon in the Dock, then drag it up and to the left or right edge of the screen. Release your finger when the second app snaps into place alongside the first.
Managing Your Split View Experience
Once you're in Split View, you have several options to customize your layout and exit the mode.
Adjusting Split View Ratio
- Resize Windows: Drag the black divider line that separates the two apps left or right across the screen. You can adjust the width of each app to give more screen real estate to one over the other. The common ratios are 50/50, 70/30, or 30/70.
Swapping Apps in Split View
- Replace an App: If you want to change one of the apps in Split View, swipe down from the top edge within the app you want to replace. This will reveal your Home Screen or App Library, allowing you to select a new app to take its place.
Exiting Split View
- Close One App: Drag the black divider line all the way to the left or right edge of the screen, past one of the apps. That app will close, and the remaining app will expand to fill the entire screen.
- Access Multitasking Menu: Tap the Multitasking button (three dots) at the top of either app in Split View, then select Center to make that app full screen and close the other.
Benefits of iPad Split View
- Enhanced Productivity: Work on two tasks simultaneously without constant app switching.
- Efficient Research: Read an article while taking notes or searching for related information.
- Streamlined Communication: Refer to documents or images while composing emails or messages.
- Creative Workflows: Reference images or palettes in one app while drawing or designing in another.
- Data Comparison: Easily compare data, prices, or information across two sources.
Compatible iPad Models and iOS Versions
Split View is available on a wide range of iPad models running specific iPadOS versions.
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| iPad Model | iPad Air 2 or later, iPad mini 4 or later, iPad (5th generation) or later, all iPad Pro models |
| iPadOS Version | iPadOS 9 or later (original Split View implementation), iPadOS 15 or later (for the Multitasking menu with three dots) |
For the most up-to-date information, always refer to Apple's official support documentation.
Common Issues and Tips
- App Compatibility: Not all apps fully support Split View, though most popular apps do. If an app doesn't work, it might not be designed for it.
- Dock Access: The Dock is a quick way to drag apps into Split View. Ensure your frequently used apps are in your Dock for easier access.
- Swipe Gestures: Familiarize yourself with iPadOS gestures. Swiping up slightly to reveal the Dock or swiping left/right with four fingers to switch between recent apps can complement your Split View usage.
- Multitasking Button: If the three-dot multitasking button isn't visible, ensure you're on a compatible iPad model and running an updated iPadOS version. Also, ensure no app is already in a full-screen video mode that might hide it temporarily.
