Updated Split-screen Mode In Android 16 Will Please Multitaskers

The post Updated Split-screen Mode In Android 16 Will Please Multitaskers appeared first on Android Headlines.

May 14, 2025 - 22:56

If you’ve ever felt pain while multitasking using split-screen on Android phones, there’s some good news for you. Although split-screen mode fits two apps simultaneously, Google’s current 70:30 and 50:50 ratio has been a major pain point. Fortunately, the company is changing that approach with the new split-screen configuration, which might roll out with the next quarterly release of Android 16.

Google is changing how split-screen works in Android 16

Earlier today, Mishaal Rahman reported for Android Authority, mentioning that Google is adopting a new 90:10 ratio for split-screen mode on Android. Meaning, an app, which used to take up 70 percent of the screen area, will now cover 90 percent of the screen. The new approach leaves the secondary app with just 10 percent of the screen.

Practically speaking, this approach is far better than the old one. It allows one app to take up the most screen while leaving a small room for the secondary app. Now, you must be wondering—Isn’t that too little space for the secondary app? Well, it is. That’s why Google is making another important change to make split-screen usage more efficient.

In Android 16, you’ll be able to tap the app covering a smaller 10 percent screen area. When you do that, Android will swap the sizes of both apps. The app, which took 90 percent of the screen, will now take up 10 percent of the screen. Whereas, the secondary app will be dominant, covering 90 percent of the screen. This feature will easily let you switch between apps and properly use them.

New 90 10 split screen ratio in Android — Image: Android Authority

The changes works similar as the Open Canvas feature

For the uninitiated, the new split-screen changes coming with Android 16 are inspired by the Open Canvas feature found in the OnePlus smartphones. Although there’s no information on whether Google and OnePlus partnered for this feature, it’s sure to be welcomed by multitaskers.

It’s unclear when Google will roll out the feature, but Rahman suggests that it could go live with Android 16’s next quarterly release. The feature is reportedly nearly complete and is working just fine. You can see it in action in the video embedded below.

The post Updated Split-screen Mode In Android 16 Will Please Multitaskers appeared first on Android Headlines.