How to Split Screen on a Hisense Roku TV: A Comprehensive Guide

Unfortunately, Hisense Roku TVs do not natively support a split-screen feature. This functionality, which allows you to display two different sources simultaneously on the same screen, is not built into the Roku operating system or Hisense’s TV hardware.

Understanding the Limitations of Split-Screen on Roku TVs

Before we delve into potential workarounds, it’s crucial to understand why split-screen isn’t a standard feature on Roku TVs, especially those manufactured by Hisense. Unlike some high-end TVs with Picture-in-Picture (PIP) or dedicated multi-view modes, Roku focuses on streaming services. The platform’s design prioritizes a streamlined, user-friendly experience centred around streaming apps rather than displaying multiple inputs at once. The processing power required for true simultaneous rendering of two video streams can also be a factor, particularly in budget-friendly Hisense models.

Potential Workarounds and Alternatives

While a true split-screen is impossible, there are a few creative approaches you might consider, albeit with significant limitations:

1. Third-Party Streaming Apps with Multi-View Features

Some third-party streaming apps offer their own forms of multi-view or picture-in-picture functionalities within their specific content. For example, certain sports apps might allow you to watch multiple games at once within their interface. However, this is entirely app-dependent and doesn’t provide a true split-screen experience across different inputs or apps.

2. Utilizing External Devices with Split-Screen Capabilities

The most viable (though not ideal) workaround involves using an external device with built-in split-screen features, then connecting it to your Hisense Roku TV. Some options include:

• Gaming Consoles: Certain gaming consoles, like the PlayStation or Xbox, have the capability to display two inputs simultaneously or offer features that can be adapted for a pseudo split-screen.
• Dedicated Split-Screen Processors/Video Wall Controllers: These are professional-grade devices designed to manage multiple video inputs and display them in various configurations, including split-screen. However, they are typically expensive and geared towards commercial applications.
• Computers/Laptops: Connecting a laptop to your Hisense Roku TV via HDMI allows you to use the laptop’s display as a secondary screen. You could then arrange windows on your laptop screen to simulate a split-screen effect.

3. Streaming From Mobile Device to TV and Using Mobile Split Screen

While it does not technically split the TV screen, many modern smartphones have split screen features and also allow you to cast content to your TV. You can run two separate apps on your phone in split screen and cast one of them to your TV. This will give you content on both your phone and your Hisense Roku TV simultaneously, providing a similar experience.

Important Considerations:

• These workarounds might introduce input lag, especially with gaming consoles.
• Picture quality may be compromised depending on the device and connection.
• The experience won’t be as seamless as a true built-in split-screen feature.

Future Possibilities and Software Updates

While split-screen isn’t currently available on Hisense Roku TVs, there’s always a possibility that future Roku OS updates could introduce such functionality. Keep an eye on Roku’s official announcements and software update logs for any potential changes. Hisense might also develop its own proprietary solution in future TV models. However, given Roku’s historical focus, it’s not highly probable in the near term.

Alternative Options: Consider a Second TV

If having a true split-screen experience is crucial, the most straightforward solution might be to invest in a second TV. This provides the flexibility to watch two different sources simultaneously without any workarounds or compromises in picture quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions concerning split-screen functionality on Hisense Roku TVs:

1. Can I use Picture-in-Picture (PIP) on my Hisense Roku TV?

No, Hisense Roku TVs do not support Picture-in-Picture (PIP) functionality. This feature allows you to watch one source in a small window while the main screen displays another source, and it’s not a standard offering on Roku TVs.

2. Are there any specific Roku channels that offer split-screen viewing?

There are no Roku channels that offer true, system-wide split-screen viewing. Some individual apps (like certain sports streaming services) might have their own internal multi-view features, but this is app-specific and limited to content within that app.

3. Will connecting two HDMI devices to my Hisense Roku TV automatically create a split-screen?

No, simply connecting two HDMI devices will not enable split-screen. The TV can only display one input source at a time. You must manually switch between the HDMI inputs using the TV’s remote or menu.

4. Is it possible to mirror my phone’s screen onto the Hisense Roku TV and use my phone’s split-screen function?

Yes, you can mirror your phone’s screen to your Hisense Roku TV using screen mirroring, often called Miracast or screen casting. Then you can use your phone’s split-screen functionality, but it will all display on the TV as if it were just one device mirroring.

5. Can I use the Roku mobile app to control two different sources simultaneously?

No, the Roku mobile app is designed to control the Roku TV itself, not to manage multiple input sources or create a split-screen effect. It allows you to navigate menus, launch apps, and control playback.

6. Does Hisense offer any TVs with built-in split-screen capabilities?

As of the current date, Hisense does not offer Roku TVs with built-in split-screen capabilities. It is important to check Hisense’s official website or product specifications to see if they have launched split-screen functionality in their TVs.

7. Would upgrading to a higher-end Hisense Roku TV model enable split-screen?

No, upgrading to a higher-end Hisense Roku TV model will not automatically enable split-screen. Roku OS does not offer split screen functionality.

8. What are the technical limitations preventing split-screen on Roku TVs?

Several factors contribute to the absence of split-screen: the processing power needed to simultaneously render two video streams, the design philosophy of Roku focusing on single-source streaming, and the software architecture of the Roku OS which prioritizes ease of use over advanced multi-viewing features.

9. Are there any aftermarket devices that can add split-screen functionality to a Hisense Roku TV?

While there are no devices specifically designed to “add” split-screen to a Roku TV, you can use external split-screen processors or video wall controllers. However, these devices are typically expensive and geared towards professional applications, not casual home use.

10. Will future software updates potentially introduce split-screen functionality to Hisense Roku TVs?

It’s possible, but not highly probable. Roku and Hisense could potentially add this feature in future updates, however, users should temper their expectations because split-screen requires significant processing power and a rethinking of the Roku OS user interface.

11. What are the best keywords to use when searching for split-screen solutions for my Hisense Roku TV?

When searching, use keywords such as “Hisense Roku TV split-screen workaround, alternative to split-screen on Roku, external split-screen processor, multi-view options for Roku TV“

12. Can I use two Roku devices connected to the same TV to create a split-screen effect?

No. The Roku device is a streaming device; thus, you cannot run two Roku devices on the same TV at the same time. You can connect both to the TV and switch between them using the input selector.