Huawei P9 Split Screen & Multi-Window Mode

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

The Huawei P9 supports split-screen and multi-window modes, allowing you to run two apps side by side on the same screen. This article explains exactly how to enable and use these features, what to do if they aren’t working, and how they compare to similar modes on other phones.

Background: What Multi-Window Means on the P9

The Huawei P9, released in 2016, runs Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) with Huawei’s EMUI 4.1 interface. Multi-window was a relatively new Android feature at the time, and Huawei implemented its own version within EMUI. Unlike stock Android, which required a long-press on the recent apps button, Huawei’s implementation used a floating dock or a split-screen gesture. The feature was designed to let you, for example, watch a video while texting, or read an email while taking notes.

How to Enable Split Screen View

There are two primary methods to activate split-screen on the P9, depending on your EMUI version and settings.

Method 1: Using the Recent Apps Button

Open the first app you want to use.
Press the square “Recent Apps� button (the rightmost navigation key) to see your open apps.
In the list of recent apps, look for a small split-screen icon (two rectangles) at the top of the app’s preview card. Tap it.
The app will move to the top half of the screen. You’ll then see a list of compatible apps at the bottom – tap the second app you want to use.

Method 2: Using the Floating Dock (EMUI 4.1 and later)

Go to Settings > Smart Assistance > Multi-Window (or Settings > Multi-Window on some versions).
Toggle on Multi-Window.
A small floating dock will appear on the edge of the screen. Tap it to reveal a tray of compatible apps.
Drag an app icon from the tray to the top or bottom of the screen to open it in split-screen.

Adjusting the Split Screen

Once you have two apps open, you can adjust the divider between them:

Drag the divider up or down to resize the two windows. You can make one app take up most of the screen and the other a small strip.
Swap the apps by tapping the middle of the divider and selecting the swap icon.
Exit split-screen by dragging the divider all the way to the top or bottom of the screen, or by pressing the Recent Apps button and selecting “Close� on the split-screen view.

Common Problems and Fixes

Many users report that split-screen doesn’t work on certain apps or that the option is grayed out. Here’s why:

App not compatible: Not all apps support multi-window. Apps that are not optimized for it (especially older games or certain banking apps) will not show the split-screen icon. You can’t force these apps into split-screen on the P9 without developer options.
Feature disabled: If you don’t see the floating dock, go to Settings > Smart Assistance > Multi-Window and ensure it’s enabled.
EMUI version: On EMUI 4.1 and later, the split-screen icon appears in Recent Apps. On earlier versions (EMUI 4.0), you might need to use the two-finger swipe gesture from the bottom of the screen (swipe up from the bottom with two fingers) to trigger split-screen.
Screen resolution: If you have set a lower screen resolution in Display settings, some apps may not render correctly in split-screen. Try setting the resolution to the default (1080p).

Comparison with Other Phones

Compared to stock Android on Pixel phones, the P9’s implementation is more discoverable because of the floating dock. Samsung’s Galaxy phones use a similar edge panel approach. On the P9, you cannot open three apps at once (a feature that came later on Samsung and Huawei’s own flagship Mate series). The P9 also lacks a “drag and drop� feature between apps in split-screen, which is available on newer devices.

Limitations and Tips

Performance: The P9 has a Kirin 955 processor and 3GB or 4GB of RAM. Running two heavy apps (like a game and a video) may cause lag. Close background apps to improve performance.
Video playback: Some video apps (like YouTube) may pause when they are not the active window. You can often fix this by enabling “Play in background� in the app’s settings, but not all apps support it.
Text input: When you tap a text field in one window, the keyboard will cover the bottom half of the screen, which can obscure the other app. This is a common issue and there’s no built-in fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the split-screen icon missing from Recent Apps?

If the icon is missing, the app you are viewing does not support multi-window. Try a different app, or check if the app has an update that adds split-screen support. Also ensure you are on EMUI 4.1 or later.

Can I use split-screen with any app?

No. The app must declare support for multi-window in its code. Most Google apps, messaging apps, and browsers support it, but many games and some streaming apps do not.

How do I turn off the floating dock?

Go to Settings > Smart Assistance > Multi-Window and toggle off the switch. The floating dock will disappear, and you’ll only be able to use the Recent Apps method.

Does split-screen work in landscape mode?

Yes, you can rotate the phone to landscape while in split-screen. The two windows will be side-by-side instead of stacked. Some apps may behave differently in landscape, but the feature works.

Why does my phone get hot in split-screen?

Running two apps simultaneously increases CPU and GPU usage, which generates heat. This is normal. If the phone gets too hot, close one of the apps or give the phone a break.

Can I open the same app twice in split-screen?

No, the P9 does not support running two instances of the same app side by side. This feature is only available on newer phones with special support.

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