Guide to Using Split Screen on an iPad with iOS 9

Introduction

Whether you are a professional, a student, or simply someone who manages multiple tasks throughout the day, the ability to use split screen on an iPad with iOS 9 can significantly improve your productivity. The split screen or multitasking feature allows you to work on two apps at the same time, leading to more efficient use of your time. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and using this feature on your iPad.

Table of Contents

Using Slide Over Using Split View Using Picture in Picture Compatibility Requirements iOS Updates Settings and Customization

Using Slide Over

Slide Over is a feature that allows you to switch between two apps quickly without having to open the second app in a full split-screen layout. This is particularly useful when you want to check or switch between two apps without fully committing to a split-screen view.

Steps to Use Slide Over

Ensure your iPad is compatible: This feature is available on iPad Air, iPad Air 2, iPad Pro, iPad Mini 2, iPad Mini 3, and iPad Mini 4. Update to iOS 9: Make sure you have the latest version of iOS 9 or later. Open your first app. Swipe from the right side of the screen: Place your finger on the right bezel and slide it left to pull the sidebar out. Select the app you want to load: Scroll through the list of apps to find the one you want to open in the sidebar. Return to your primary app: Tap outside of the sidebar or drag the bar on the left side of the sidebar off the right side of the screen.

Using Split View

Split View, on the other hand, allows you to work with two apps simultaneously in a full split-screen view. This is particularly useful for managing heavy tasks such as working on a project and referring to a tutorial or document at the same time.

Steps to Use Split View

Ensure your iPad is compatible: Split View requires an iPad Pro, Air 2, or Mini 4. Update to iOS 9: Make sure you have the latest version of iOS 9 or later. Open your primary app: Swipe from the right side of the screen: Place your finger on the right bezel and slide it left to open the Slide Over sidebar. Select the app you want to load: The sidebar will display an app menu or the last app you used in Split View mode. Enable Split View mode: Drag the grabber on the left side of the sidebar towards the center of the screen to switch to Split View mode. Resize the Split View windows: You can drag the center bar to adjust the size of the two apps. Change your primary app: You can switch the primary app by using traditional methods such as returning to the Home screen or using the recent apps view. Close Split View: Drag the center bar off the screen to close the secondary app or make it the primary app.

Using Picture in Picture

Picture in Picture (PiP) is another useful feature that allows you to play videos in a small window while working on other apps. This feature is supported on 64-bit iPads.

Steps to Use Picture in Picture

Ensure your iPad is compatible: Only 64-bit iPads support PiP. Update to iOS 9: Make sure you have the latest version of iOS 9 or later. Open a video app that supports PiP: The Videos app, FaceTime, or any streaming service that supports PiP can be used. Start playing the video: Ensure the video is open and playing. Press the PiP button or Home button: This will move the video to the PiP window. Resize the PiP window: Use two fingers to move the PiP window around or resize it. Return to the video app: Tap the PiP button in the PiP window to exit Picture in Picture.

Compatibility Requirements

For Slide Over, Split View, and Picture in Picture to work on your iPad, you need to meet certain requirements:

Slide Over: iPad Air, iPad Air 2, iPad Pro, iPad Mini 2, iPad Mini 3, iPad Mini 4 Split View: iPad Pro, Air 2, iPad Mini 4 PiP: 64-bit iPads (iPad Air, iPad Air 2, iPad Pro, iPad Mini 2, iPad Mini 3, iPad Mini 4)

iOS Updates

Always keep your iPad up to date with the latest version of iOS to ensure the best experience and take advantage of new features and improvements. You can check for updates in the Settings > General > Software Update.

Settings and Customization

The settings and customization options for split screen and multitasking can be found in the Settings app. You can customize various aspects of your split screen setup, such as the position of the apps and the size of the windows.

In conclusion, the split screen or multitasking feature on an iPad with iOS 9 is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance your productivity. Whether you need to work on multiple tasks simultaneously or view a video while managing other apps, this feature provides the flexibility and efficiency you need. Remember to always check the compatibility requirements and ensure your iPad is updated to the latest version of iOS.