Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge: Split Screen Guide

To use split screen on a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, open the first app, tap the Recents button (the square icon), then tap the app’s icon at the top of its preview and select “Open in split screen view.” Then choose a second app from the list. This guide explains the full process, including alternative gestures, resizing, and common problems.

What Split Screen Is and Why Use It

Split screen (officially called Multi Window) lets you run two apps side by side on the same screen. On the S7 Edge’s 5.5-inch display, this is useful for watching a video while texting, comparing prices while shopping, or taking notes while reading an article. The feature was built into the phone’s software from Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, so you don’t need to install anything extra.

How to Start Split Screen: The Standard Method

The most reliable way works on any app that supports it:

1. Open the first app you want to use (e.g., YouTube).
2. Tap the Recents button (the square icon at the bottom left of the screen).
3. Find the app’s card in the list. It will have a small app icon at the top of the card.
4. Tap that icon, then tap Open in split screen view.
5. The app will snap to the top half. The bottom half will show a list of other open apps.
6. Tap the second app from that list (e.g., Messages).

If the second app isn’t in the list, swipe left or right to see all recent apps, or tap the Home button and open it normally—it should then appear in the empty half.

Using the Edge Screen to Start Split Screen

The S7 Edge has a unique curved edge panel that offers a faster shortcut:

1. Open the first app.
2. Swipe inward from the edge handle (the small tab on the side of the screen) to open the Edge panel.
3. Select Apps edge (the square of app icons).
4. Drag an app icon from the edge panel to the top or bottom half of the screen.
5. Release it—the app will open in split screen alongside the current one.

This method works best if you have the Edge panel enabled. If you don’t see the edge handle, go to Settings > Display > Edge screen and turn it on.

Resizing and Switching Apps in Split Screen

Once two apps are on screen, you can adjust how much space each one takes:

• Drag the divider (the black bar between the two apps) up or down to resize. You can make one app take up to about 70% of the screen.
• Tap the divider’s center circle to swap the apps (top becomes bottom).
• Tap the divider’s arrow to exit split screen and keep the app that was on top.
• Open a third app in split screen by tapping the Recents button, then tapping the app’s icon and choosing “Open in split screen view”—it will replace the app you tap on.

Common Problems and Fixes

If split screen isn’t working, here are the usual causes and solutions:

• App doesn’t support split screen: Some apps (like many games and banking apps) block Multi Window. You’ll see a message saying “This app doesn’t support split screen.” There is no workaround without third-party tools.
• Recents button doesn’t show the app icon: On some versions of the S7 Edge’s interface (especially after updates), the app icon may be hidden. Try pressing and holding the Recents button instead—this also opens split screen on some firmware versions.
• Edge panel won’t drag: Make sure the app you’re dragging is compatible. If it’s not, the drag will just open the app full screen.
• Screen flickers or apps crash: Restart the phone. If it persists, go to Settings > Apps, find the problematic app, and clear its cache.

Split Screen vs. Pop-up View

The S7 Edge also has a Pop-up view—a floating window that sits on top of the main app. To use it, tap the app’s icon in Recents and select App info (or on some versions, Pop-up view directly). The difference:

• Split screen gives both apps equal space and is better for multitasking where you need to see both at once.
• Pop-up view lets one app float over another, so the underlying app stays full size. You can move, resize, and minimize the pop-up.

For example, you might use split screen to watch a video and read a chat, but use pop-up view for a calculator while writing an email.

Battery and Performance Notes

Running two apps at once uses more CPU and RAM, which can drain the battery faster and cause slight warmth. The S7 Edge has 4GB of RAM, which is enough for most pairs, but heavy games plus video may cause lag. To reduce strain:

• Close other background apps before starting split screen.
• Lower screen brightness.
• Use power-saving mode if you’re low on battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use split screen with any app?

No. Most Google apps, Samsung apps, and popular social media apps support it, but some apps (especially games and certain banking apps) disable it. You’ll see an error message if an app doesn’t allow it.

How do I exit split screen?

Drag the divider all the way to the top or bottom of the screen, or tap the arrow on the divider. You can also press the Home button—both apps will close to the Recents list.

Why is the Recents button not showing the split screen option?

If you don’t see the app icon at the top of a card, the app may not support split screen. Try pressing and holding the Recents button instead—on some S7 Edge software versions, this directly enters split screen mode.

Does split screen work in landscape mode?

Yes. If you rotate the phone, the two apps will appear side by side (left and right) instead of top and bottom. The divider will be vertical.

Can I save a split screen pair to reopen later?

No, the S7 Edge does not have a native way to save app pairs. You’ll need to set up the split screen each time. Some third-party launchers offer this, but they require extra setup.

Will split screen slow down my phone?

It can if you’re running two heavy apps. The S7 Edge’s 4GB RAM is generally sufficient, but if you notice lag, close other background apps or reduce the number of apps running in the Recents list.

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