How to Split Screen on iPhone for Better Productivity (2023)

Phone  ·  2023 Guide

Split Screen can be a lifesaver when it comes to multitasking — especially when you need to copy-paste back and forth between apps. Many phones offer it by default, but for those that don't, here's how to split screen on iPhone to make your life easier.

What is Split Screen?

A split screen lets you have two apps open side by side on the same display, so you can work across them without constantly switching. It's handy for referencing a document while composing an email, dragging files between folders, or watching a video while browsing.

Not all iPhone models support split screen natively — the feature is more limited on iOS compared to iPadOS. The methods below cover what's available on iPhone along with practical alternatives.

How to Split Screen on iPhone

1. iPhone Settings

Some multitasking options live in the Settings app. Navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness and check for any available split-view or display-zoom toggles. Availability depends on your iPhone model and iOS version.

2. Split Screen — Dual Window

Certain apps support a dual-window mode where you can open two instances of the same app. This works in Safari (open a second tab as a separate window) and some third-party apps that have adopted the feature.

3. Split Screen View

On compatible iPhones, you can use the app switcher to enter a split view. Swipe up from the bottom and hold, then drag one app thumbnail to the left or right edge of the screen. Note that this is primarily an iPad feature; iPhone support is limited to specific models and iOS releases.

4. Split Web Browser

In Safari, you can open two tabs side by side by long-pressing a link and selecting "Open in Split View" — though this is more reliable on larger-screen iPhones. Alternatively, use Safari's tab overview to arrange windows.

Alternate Multitasking Methods

Picture in Picture (PIP)

Picture in Picture lets you shrink a video into a floating window that stays on screen while you use other apps. It works with FaceTime, Apple TV, and many streaming apps. To activate, start playing a video and swipe up to go home — the video should continue in a small overlay.

Fast Switch

Quickly jump between apps by swiping left or right along the bottom edge of the screen (on iPhones with Face ID) or double-pressing the Home button (on models with Touch ID). While not true split screen, fast switching dramatically speeds up multitasking.