Learn how to split screen on iPad to multitask like a pro. Step-by-step guide, iPadOS 26 tips, and fixes for when Split View doesn’t work.
I’ve been using the iPad for years, and one feature that completely changed the way I work is Split View. Before I discovered it, I was constantly switching between apps—typing notes in one, then jumping back to Safari to copy something, then reopening my notes again. It was exhausting. Once I learned how to split screen on iPad, everything felt smoother.
If you’re like me and want to multitask without the hassle, here’s a straightforward guide on how to use Split View on iPad, plus a few lessons I’ve learned along the way.
CONTENTS:
What is Split View on iPad?
Split View lets you run two apps side by side. For example, you can have your email open on the left while browsing a website on the right. It’s like having a mini laptop experience without needing an external monitor.
How to use Split View on iPad?
Here’s exactly how I do it:
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Open the first app. Let’s say Notes.
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Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Dock.
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Drag the second app (like Safari) from the Dock to the left or right side of the screen.
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The apps will snap into Split View, sharing your display.
You can then adjust the divider bar to give more space to one app.
Personal Tip:
At first, I always dragged too quickly and ended up with Slide Over instead of Split View. The trick is to drag slowly to the edge of the screen until it locks into place.
How to Split Screen on iPadOS 26
Apple keeps tweaking how multitasking works. On iPadOS 26, it feels more intuitive:
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Tap the three dots at the top of your app.
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Choose Split View.
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Select the second app from your home screen or Dock.
This method is cleaner than dragging apps, especially if you’re using an Apple Pencil.
Why can’t you use Split View on iPad?
Sometimes Split View just won’t work. I’ve run into this before, and here are the common reasons:
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Your iPad model doesn’t support it. Older models can’t handle multitasking.
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Not all apps support Split View. Some still open in full screen only.
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Settings might be disabled. Go to Settings => Home Screen & Multitasking => Multitasking and make sure it’s turned on.
If you still can’t use Split View, try restarting your iPad. It’s a simple, familiar trick, but surprisingly effective.
My Favorite Ways to Use Split View
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Writing in Notes or Goodnotes while researching in Safari.
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Watching a YouTube tutorial while practicing in Procreate.
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Checking email while managing tasks in Notion.
Once you get used to it, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it.
Q&A about Split View on iPad
Q: Can I use more than two apps at once?
A: Yes, you can. You can add a third app in Slide Over (one app floats above another app, and you can drag it to the left or right side of your screen) while two are in Split View.
Q: How do I exit Split View?
A: Drag the divider all the way to one side until one app takes the full screen.
Q: Does Split View drain my battery faster?
A: In my experience, yes—slightly. Running two apps at the same time does use more power.
Q: Is Split View available on all iPads?
A: No. You’ll need an iPad running iPadOS 15 or later, and not every older model supports it.
Q: Can I use Split View with just one app?
A: Yes, but only with apps that support it, like Google Chrome or GoodNotes. I often use Split View in GoodNotes to open two files side by side within the same app.
Final thoughts
Learning how to use Split View on iPad completely boosted my productivity. It’s perfect for students, freelancers, or anyone who loves multitasking without juggling multiple devices. If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go, you’ll probably end up using it every day like I do.
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