The modern iPad is no longer just a device for watching films on the sofa. With the introduction of powerful M-series chips and dedicated iPadOS software, it has evolved into a formidable productivity machine. However, to truly replace a laptop, you need to know how to manage multiple applications at once. Learning how to use split view on iPad allows you to browse the web while taking notes, or drag and drop photos directly into an email draft.
In this guide, we will break down the essential multitasking features of iPadOS, showing you how to master Split View and Slide Over to significantly boost your efficiency.
Understanding the Multitasking Menu
Apple recently introduced a dedicated multitasking menu to make split-screen functionality much more intuitive. You no longer have to rely solely on confusing gestures.
- Open any application on your iPad (for example, the Safari web browser).
- Look at the very top-centre of your screen. You will see a small icon consisting of three grey dots (…).
- Tap this icon to reveal the multitasking menu. You will see three distinct options:
- Full Screen: The standard view where the app takes up the entire display.
- Split View: Splits the screen perfectly in half, allowing two apps to run side-by-side.
- Slide Over: Shrinks the current app into a small floating window that hovers over another full-screen application.
How to Activate Split View
Setting up two apps side-by-side is now a seamless process.
- Tap the three dots at the top of your currently open app.
- Tap the Split View button (the middle icon with a line down the centre).
- The current app will slide off to the left side of the screen, revealing your Home Screen.
- Find and tap the second application you want to open (for example, Apple Notes).
- The two applications will now appear side-by-side, perfectly dividing your screen real estate.
Adjusting the Split
If you want one app to take up more space than the other, look for the small black grab handle on the vertical line separating the two apps. Press and drag this handle to the left or right to give one app a 70/30 split.
Using the Drag-and-Drop Gesture
Once you have two apps open in Split View, you can easily move content between them without using the copy-and-paste menu.
- Images: Press and hold a photo in the Safari browser until it lifts slightly, then drag it across the centre line and drop it into your Notes document.
- Text: Highlight a paragraph of text, press and hold the highlighted area, and drag it into the other application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I close one of the apps in Split View?
To exit Split View, simply grab the black handle on the centre dividing line and drag it all the way to the edge of the screen, effectively pushing the unwanted app off the display.
Do all apps support Split View?
Most modern apps, including all of Apple’s native applications, support multitasking. However, some third-party apps (like certain games or older software) have not been updated by their developers to support flexible screen sizes and will force a full-screen view.
By mastering these built-in multitasking tools, you can transform your iPad from a casual consumption device into a genuine portable workstation.
