Samsung Galaxy S7 Split Screen: How-To Guide
To split the screen on a Samsung Galaxy S7, open the Recents screen (tap the square button) and drag an app card to the top of the display. You can then tap a second app from the list below to fill the bottom half. This guide covers the exact steps, supported apps, common issues, and tips for multitasking on your S7.
What Is Split Screen on the Galaxy S7?
Split screen, also called Multi Window, lets you run two apps side by side on the same screen. The S7’s 5.1-inch display divides into two resizable panes, so you can watch a video while texting, or read an article while taking notes. The feature is built into the phone’s software—no extra app is needed—and works with most apps that support it.
How to Start Split Screen (Step-by-Step)
There are two main ways to enter split screen on the S7. The first uses the Recents button, and the second uses the recent apps list directly.
- Open the first app you want to use (e.g., Chrome).
- Tap the Recents button (the square icon at the bottom left of the screen). This shows all your open apps as cards.
- Find the card for the app you just opened. Do not tap it—instead, touch and hold the card’s title bar (the area with the app icon and name).
- Drag that card to the top of the screen until a blue highlight appears, then release. The app snaps to the top half.
- Choose a second app from the remaining cards in the bottom half. Tap it, and it fills the lower pane.
Alternatively, you can enter split screen from the Recents screen by tapping the app icon (the small circle with two rectangles) at the top of a card, then selecting “Open in split screen view.�
Adjusting the Split and Switching Apps
Once in split screen, you can drag the circular handle in the middle of the screen up or down to resize the panes. You can also tap that handle to choose options: swap the apps, close one, or exit split screen. To replace one app, tap its pane to bring it to the foreground, then use the Recents button to pick a new app for that side.
Which Apps Support Split Screen?
Most Google apps (Chrome, Gmail, Maps, YouTube) and Samsung apps (Internet, Messages, Notes) work fine. Some apps, especially games and certain banking or streaming apps, may not support split screen—they either ignore the request or force full-screen. If an app doesn’t appear in the Recents list or refuses to split, it likely doesn’t support the feature. You can force most apps to work by enabling “Multi window for all appsâ€� in the developer options, but that can cause display issues.
Common Problems and Fixes
- Can’t find the Recents button? It’s the square icon at the bottom left. If you use gesture navigation, swipe up from the bottom and hold to open Recents.
- Dragging doesn’t work? Make sure you’re dragging from the card’s title bar, not the app content. If you still have trouble, try the app icon method instead.
- Split screen won’t start? Some apps are incompatible. Try two different apps, like Chrome and Messages, to test.
- Screen goes black or flickers? This can happen with certain apps in split view. Close one app and try again.
Tips for Better Multitasking
Use the S7’s “pop-up viewâ€� for a third app: from the Recents screen, tap the app icon and choose “Open in pop-up view.â€� That creates a floating window you can move and resize. You can also drag text or images from one app to another in split screen (if the app supports it). For example, select text in Chrome, then drag it into a note in Samsung Notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does split screen work on all Galaxy S7 models?
Yes, both the regular S7 and the S7 edge support split screen. The steps are identical, though the edge has a slightly larger screen.
Why is my split screen not working?
Most likely the app you’re trying to use doesn’t support it. Try a different pair of apps, or check if you’ve accidentally disabled Multi Window in Settings > Advanced Features > Multi Window.
Can I use split screen while watching YouTube?
Yes, YouTube works in split screen, but you’ll need a YouTube Premium subscription to play videos in the background or with the screen off. Without Premium, the video may pause when the app isn’t focused.
How do I exit split screen?
Drag the center handle all the way to the top or bottom of the screen, or tap the handle and select the X icon. You can also press the Recents button and close one of the apps.
Does split screen drain the battery faster?
Running two apps at once uses more CPU and screen power, so yes, it can drain the battery more quickly. The S7’s battery is not replaceable, so consider lowering screen brightness while multitasking.
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