How to Use Two Apps on an iPad: Guide to Split Screen and Slide Over

Apple's iPad offers a range of features to multitask effectively, allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously for a more efficient workflow. Two key features that enable this are the Split Screen and Slide Over views. This guide will walk you through how to use both these features.

Using Slide Over on iPad

Slide Over is a simple yet effective way to run two applications on your iPad side-by-side. To use Slide Over, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open an App

Launch the primary application you wish to use.

Step 2: Access the Dock

Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Dock.

Step 3: Access the Second App

Press and hold the icon of the second app you want to run. Slide it onto the screen near the primary app you are using.

For further guidance, you can watch the Apple Support video on Slide Over.

Using Split Screen on iPad

Split Screen mode is ideal for more complex multitasking and allows you to work with multiple applications side-by-side, side-scrolled, or in a compact layout. To set up Split Screen, follow these steps:

Step 1: Launch the Primary App

Open the main app you want to use first.

Step 2: Access the Dock

Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Dock.

Step 3: Launch the Second App

Press and hold the icon of the secondary app you want to open. Drag it to the left or right side of the screen.

To adjust the size of the Split View, simply drag the divider between the two apps to the desired position.

For step-by-step instructions, check out the Apple Support video on Split Screen.

The Role of the Dock in Multitasking

The Dock is a crucial feature in iPad's multitasking capabilities. It acts as a hub where you can easily access all your installed applications. To maximize the use of Split Screen and Slide Over, ensure that you have set up your iPad according to Apple’s recommendations:

Navigate to Settings > Home Screen > Dock > Multitasking and enable the necessary features. Turn on Multiple Apps and Picture-in-Picture to enhance your multitasking experience. Enable Gestures to make your navigation smoother and faster.

Summary

While iPhone users have a limited capacity for multitasking apps compared to the iPad, iPads offer powerful tools like Split Screen and Slide Over to make multitasking a breeze. These features are instrumental in enhancing your productivity and making your iPad a versatile device for work and play.

If you need to run two apps at the same time on your iPhone, you might need to consider using a third-party app or your iPad instead. Remember, as of the latest updates, Slide Over is available on all iPads, while Split Screen is available on iPad Pro, iPad, and iPad mini, but not on iPhone models.