Typing long emails or documents on an iPad can be cumbersome if you are holding the device with both hands, especially on the larger 11-inch or 12.9-inch iPad Pro models. Your thumbs simply cannot reach the center keys of the standard, full-width software keyboard. To solve this ergonomic nightmare, Apple introduced the Split Keyboard feature, which breaks the keyboard directly in half and pushes the keys to the extreme left and right edges of the screen, allowing for fast, comfortable thumb-typing.
How to Enable and Use the Split Keyboard
Note: Apple removed the Split Keyboard feature from the largest iPad Pro models (12.9-inch) starting with iPadOS 13, replacing it entirely with the floating mini keyboard. The Split Keyboard remains available on standard iPads, iPad Airs, and older models.
- Open any application where you can enter text (like Notes, Mail, or Safari) and tap on a text field to bring up the standard on-screen keyboard.
- Look at the bottom-right corner of the keyboard for the Keyboard key (it looks like a tiny keyboard icon, usually next to the dictation microphone).
- Press and hold your finger on the Keyboard key. Do not just tap it.
- A small pop-up menu will appear with several options. Slide your finger up to highlight Split and release.
The keyboard will instantly cleave in two, snapping to the left and right margins of your screen, perfectly aligned for your thumbs to reach every key while securely holding the iPad.
How to Move the Split Keyboard
By default, the Split Keyboard docks at the very bottom of the screen. Depending on the application you are using, this might cover up important interface elements. You can easily drag the split halves up or down the screen to find the perfect typing position.
- Press and hold the Keyboard key in the bottom-right corner again.
- This time, slide your finger to select Undock.
- Alternatively, you can just grab the Keyboard key and physically drag it up or down the screen. The two halves of the keyboard will follow your finger, hovering semi-transparently over your content.
How to Rejoin the Keyboard
When you place your iPad down on a desk and want to return to traditional two-handed touch typing, merging the keyboard back together is instantaneous.
- Press and hold the Keyboard key.
- Slide your finger up to highlight Merge (or “Dock and Merge” if it is currently hovering in the middle of the screen) and release.
The keyboard will instantly snap back into its standard, full-width configuration at the bottom of the screen.