Android Tablet · Personalization

Run two or more apps at once with split screen and pop-up view

Android tablets support split screen (two apps side by side) and pop-up/floating view (a resizable floating window), letting you reference one app while working in another on the larger screen.

What you should know

  • Open the Recent apps (overview) screen, then tap the app icon above a thumbnail and choose Open in split screen view.
  • Drag a second app from the Recents list or taskbar into the empty half of the screen to fill the split.
  • Long-press an app icon and choose Open in pop-up view (One UI) to float it as a resizable window over other apps.
  • The drag handle in the middle of a split-screen divider can be dragged to resize the ratio between the two apps, or dragged fully to one side to exit split screen.
  • Some tablets add a persistent Taskbar (Settings > Display > Taskbar) for quickly launching or dragging apps into split screen from any screen.

Not every app supports split screen or pop-up view — apps that lock to full-screen (common in some games and video players) will show "not supported" when you try.

Why it matters

Multi-window is the main advantage a tablet has over a phone for productivity — being able to drag a link from a browser into a notes app, or watch a video while messaging, is a core reason people choose a larger-screen device.

Best practices

  • Enable the Taskbar under Settings > Display > Taskbar for one-tap access to split screen and pop-up view from any app.
  • Pair a frequently used app combo (e.g., browser + notes) and save it as an App Pair (One UI) so both launch together in split screen instantly.
  • Use pop-up view for short tasks like a calculator or messaging thread you want to keep visible without giving up full screen space.

Common problems and fixes

"This app doesn't support split screen" appears
The app itself restricts multi-window mode — check for an in-app tablet or multitasking setting, or use pop-up view instead if supported.
Split screen option is missing from Recent apps
Confirm multi-window is enabled under Settings > Advanced features > Labs (or Multi window), and that the tablet isn't in a single-app kiosk/restricted mode.

Tips and tricks

  • Swipe up with three fingers while inside a full-screen app to snap it into split-screen view instantly, without going through the Recents screen.

Frequently asked questions

Can I run three apps at once?

Yes on many tablets — two apps in split screen plus a third in a floating pop-up window on top, though performance depends on the tablet's RAM.