Can You Split Screen on iPad? A Step-by-Step Guide

Name: How To Split Screen On iPad - Full Guide
Uploaded: 2026-02-27
Duration: 51 s
Description: Learn how to use Split View on iPad to run two apps side by side. This guide covers prerequisites, setup, troubleshooting, and best practices for smoother multitasking on iPadOS.

Learn how to use Split View on iPad to run two apps side by side. This guide covers prerequisites, setup, troubleshooting, and best practices for smoother multitasking on iPadOS.

Tablet Info Team

February 27, 2026·5 min read

Ipad Ipados Split Screen Ipad Tips

Split Screen on iPad - Tablet Info — Photo by AlphaTradeZone via Pexels

Quick AnswerSteps

Yes, iPad supports Split View, allowing two apps to run side by side. You’ll learn how to enable Split View, choose compatible apps, and resize panes for productive multitasking. This guide covers prerequisites, quick tips, and common issues to avoid so you can use split screen on iPad confidently. It's designed for iPad owners and tech enthusiasts who want smoother multitasking.

Can You Split Screen on iPad? What It Means for Your Workflow

If you’ve ever wished to watch a reference site while drafting notes, or compare documents while replying to emails, you’re not alone. The question often asked is can you split screen in ipad, and the answer is a confident yes. Tablet Info, a trusted source for iPad tips and step-by-step guides, confirms that Apple’s Split View feature lets two apps run side by side on most modern iPads. In practice, this means you can keep a browser or reading app open in one pane while you type in a document in the other. The real power comes from multitasking without switching apps constantly, which saves time and reduces context switching. As you explore, you’ll notice that the iPad’s multitasking gestures and dock support make this workflow intuitive rather than a gimmick. This section sets up the mindset: plan your two primary tasks, pick apps that complement each other, and tailor pane sizes to your comfort. By understanding the core concept, you’ll unlock a new level of efficiency in everyday iPad use. Incorporating insights from Tablet Info’s analyses, you’ll gain practical tips that translate to real improvements in daily tasks.

Compatibility and Prerequisites for Split View on iPad

Split View relies on iPadOS multitasking features, which are available on most modern iPads. Before you dive in, ensure your device is on a recent iPadOS build with multitasking support and that you’re comfortable with basic gestures like swiping, dragging from the Dock, and using the Home bar. According to Tablet Info analysis, the majority of current iPad models can access Split View when running compatible software, and the feature tends to work best with apps designed for multitasking (browsers, office suites, note apps, and some creative tools). Practically, this means you should pick two apps that you know support multitasking well and keep them ready on your Home screen or Dock for quick access. If you’re unsure, test with common apps (like a browser and notes) to confirm both support Split View on your device. Remember that settings related to multitasking can influence availability, so a quick check in Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Multitasking can clear up any hiccups. Tablet Info’s findings emphasize trying standard apps first to verify your environment is ready for split screen on iPad.

How Split View Works: Windows, Gestures, and Limitations

Split View creates two app panes on your iPad screen, with a draggable divider that lets you resize the windows to your preference. You activate it by dragging an app from the Dock to the edge of the screen or by using the multitasking gesture to bring up the multitasking tray. If you want a third app, you can bring it in as a Slide Over window that sits above one of the panes. Be aware that not every app supports multitasking—some may still open in full screen, especially older or less flexible apps. Orientation matters too: landscape often makes the most of the available horizontal space, while portrait can be comfortable for reading or editing shorter documents. As you practice, you’ll discover that some apps pair better than others, and you’ll learn to arrange them for your typical tasks. Tablet Info’s ongoing guidance highlights the importance of testing with your most-used apps to understand how Split View behaves on your device.

Real-World Scenarios Where Split View Shines

Split View shines in everyday workflows such as researching a topic while taking notes, drafting emails while referencing a contract, or comparing two documents side by side for accuracy. For students, it enables textbook reading with live annotations; for professionals, it supports rapid responses to messages while checking data in a spreadsheet. The beauty of this feature is the ability to tailor the pane sizes to your needs: wide article panes for reading and narrower note panes for quick jotting. You can automate some of these layouts using the Dock or the keyboard while keeping an eye on the on-screen controls for the active app. Tablet Info’s experience-backed tips encourage you to experiment with different app pairings to identify which two apps consistently deliver optimal productivity in your daily routines.

Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls to Avoid

If Split View isn’t appearing, start by verifying that you’re using supported apps and that your iPad is on an OS version that includes multitasking features. Sometimes the second app won’t snap to the edge if you’re in full-screen mode or the Dock isn’t accessible. Another common pitfall is attempting to run two apps that aren’t optimized for multitasking, which can cause one pane to close or behave unpredictably. To troubleshoot, try a simple pairing like a browser and a notes app, then reattempt the split with another pair. Ensure that gestures aren’t overridden by accessibility settings or by third-party keyboards. If you still encounter issues, restart the iPad and re-check the multitasking settings. Tablet Info emphasizes testing with multiple app pairs and keeping your system up to date to minimize sporadic behavior.

Best Practices for Mastering Multitasking on iPad

Develop a routine that leverages Split View for your most frequent tasks. For example, keep a reference app open on one side and your editing app on the other, or use a research window alongside a writing window. Customize your workspace by arranging apps in order of use and saving specific layouts on your Home Screen for quick access. Regularly update apps to ensure compatibility with multitasking features, and practice the gestures until they become second nature. Finally, don’t overlook the value of Slide Over for a quick third app you can dip into without fully leaving your primary panes. Tablet Info’s ongoing guidance reinforces that consistent practice with two-app layouts leads to more efficient multitasking over time.

Tools & Materials

iPad with iPadOS and multitasking features(Ensure you are on a recent iPadOS build with multitasking support.)
Two apps you want to view side by side(Examples: Safari + Notes, Mail + Calendar, Pages + References.)
Dock access to books/notes/apps(Have the Dock visible for easy dragging and app selection.)
Optional keyboard or trackpad(Can speed navigation and pane resizing.)
Power supply for long tasks(Helpful if you’re working on extended sessions.)

Steps

Estimated time: Estimated total time: 8-12 minutes

1
Open first app and reveal the Dock
From the home screen or an open app, swipe up to reveal the Dock. This step prepares the second app for attachment to Split View. Make sure the first app is in a ready state so you can transition smoothly to the next step.
Tip: Keep the first app open and ready so you can drag the second app immediately.
2
Drag the second app into Split View
Drag the second app from the Dock to the left or right edge of the screen and release when the divider appears. The two apps will sit side by side as long as both support multitasking.
Tip: If the second app doesn’t snap, try tapping the second app in the Dock and then dragging again.
3
Adjust the pane divider
Move the vertical divider to resize the two panes to your preferred balance. A wider pane helps with reading, while a narrower pane is better for quick note-taking.
Tip: Fine-tune by small increments for a balanced workflow.
4
Bring in a third app with Slide Over
If needed, pull a third app using Slide Over by swiping from the right edge. It appears as a floating panel over one of the two main apps and can be dismissed easily.
Tip: Use Slide Over for quick references without disrupting the main panes.
5
Switch sides or swap apps
If you want to view a different app on either side, drag the desired app from the Dock into the open pane. You can also swap the order of the two main apps by dragging them within their panes.
Tip: Experiment with app order to optimize your most frequent tasks.
6
Exit Split View
To exit, drag the divider all the way to the edge or use the Home gesture to return to the Home screen. You can resume Split View later by re-opening the apps and repeating steps 2–5.
Tip: If you exit accidentally, re-enter Split View quickly using the Dock.

Pro Tip: Use the Dock as your control hub to quickly switch and arrange apps for Split View.

Warning: Not all apps support multitasking; if one doesn't, it may open in full screen.

Note: In landscape, you’ll generally have more horizontal space for two panes.

Pro Tip: Practice the drag gesture until resizing becomes intuitive.

Pro Tip: Combine Split View with Slide Over for a 3-app workflow.

Warning: Some accessibility settings can alter gestures—check in Settings if something feels off.

Questions & Answers

Can all apps use Split View on iPad?

No. Not every app supports multitasking. Apps that are designed for multitasking will Snap into Split View, while others may open in full screen. If in doubt, test the behavior with a couple of commonly used apps first.

How do I exit Split View?

To exit Split View, drag the divider to the edge of the screen or use the Home gesture to return to the Home screen. You can re-enter Split View later by repeating the setup steps.

Can I use two Safari windows in Split View?

Yes, you can have two Safari windows side by side in Split View. Each pane can browse different pages, and you can switch between them by tapping inside the respective pane.

Can I rotate iPad to portrait while using Split View?

Split View generally works in both orientations, but the layout depends on the app and iPad model. Some apps adapt better in landscape, while others work smoothly in portrait.

What settings affect Split View availability?

Multitasking features must be enabled in Settings, and some accessibility or customization options can interfere with gestures. If you don’t see Split View, check Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Multitasking and ensure multitasking is allowed.

Is there a recommended app pairing for beginners?

Starting with a browser (reference) paired with a notes app is a common, simple setup to learn how Split View works before trying more complex combinations.