How to Remove Split Screen View on iPad: A Comprehensive Guide

Stuck in split screen on your iPad and yearning for that glorious full-screen real estate again? Fear not! Escaping split screen is simpler than you might think, a quick maneuver standing between you and iPad nirvana. The primary method involves using the center divider. Simply drag the center divider all the way to the left or right edge of the screen, forcing one app to expand and consume the entire display while closing the other.

Methods to Exit Split Screen View

Beyond the basic divider drag, a few alternative methods can liberate your iPad from the tyranny of split screen. Let’s explore them in detail.

Using the Center Divider

This is your bread-and-butter method, the go-to solution in most cases. The process is intuitive:

1. Identify the Center Divider: Locate the vertical bar separating the two apps in split screen.
2. Tap and Hold: Touch the center divider and hold your finger on it until it appears to slightly “lift” or become more prominent.
3. Drag and Release: Drag the center divider either to the extreme left edge or the extreme right edge of your iPad screen. The app you drag towards will expand to full screen, while the other app will close.
4. Release: Once the center divider reaches the edge, release your finger. Voila! Full-screen bliss.

Closing an App From the App Switcher

The App Switcher offers a more hands-on approach.

1. Access the App Switcher: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen (stopping midway) or double-press the Home button (on older iPads). This reveals all recently used apps.
2. Locate the Split Screen Pair: Identify the app pair currently in split screen. They will be displayed together as a single card.
3. Swipe to Close: Swipe up on the card of the app you wish to close. This will remove it from the split screen and automatically force the remaining app to occupy the entire screen.

Dock and Slide Over Considerations

Sometimes, an app might be in Slide Over mode alongside a full-screen app, creating a somewhat similar visual experience to split screen.

1. Identify Slide Over: Apps in Slide Over appear as a smaller, floating window on the right or left side of the screen. They are not truly split; they are overlaid.
2. Dismiss Slide Over: To dismiss Slide Over, swipe the Slide Over app to the right edge of the screen. It will disappear, leaving the full-screen app to dominate.

Troubleshooting Persistent Split Screen

Occasionally, your iPad might stubbornly cling to split screen. This can be frustrating, but there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take.

Restarting Your iPad

The age-old remedy: turning it off and on again. A simple restart often clears up minor software glitches that might be causing the split screen to persist.

1. Power Down: Press and hold either volume button and the power button simultaneously (on newer iPads without a Home button), or just the power button (on older iPads), until the power-off slider appears.
2. Slide to Power Off: Drag the slider to the right to power off your iPad.
3. Power On: Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.

Checking Multitasking Settings

Incorrect multitasking settings can sometimes interfere with your ability to exit split screen.

1. Access Settings: Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Multitasking & Dock: Scroll down and tap on “Multitasking & Dock.”
3. Ensure Allow Multiple Apps is Enabled: Make sure the “Allow Multiple Apps” toggle is switched on. If it’s off, split screen functionality will be disabled.

FAQs: Split Screen Mastery

Here are some frequently asked questions about dealing with split screen on your iPad.

1. Why does my iPad keep going into split screen accidentally?

Accidental activation often happens due to unintentional gestures, such as dragging an app icon from the Dock onto the main screen. Be mindful of your finger placement and avoid dragging icons from the Dock unless you intend to use split screen or Slide Over.

2. Can I disable split screen completely on my iPad?

Yes, you can. Go to Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Multitasking, and toggle off “Allow Multiple Apps.” This disables both split screen and Slide Over.

3. How do I switch the apps’ positions in split screen?

At the top of each app window, you’ll see a small gray bar. Tap and hold this bar, then drag the app to the other side of the screen. This effectively swaps their positions.

4. What if the center divider isn’t responding?

Try restarting your iPad. If the issue persists, ensure your fingers are clean and dry, as a greasy or damp screen can interfere with touch responsiveness. Also, check for any screen protectors that might be affecting touch sensitivity.

5. Can I use split screen with any app?

Not all apps support split screen. While most modern iPad apps are designed to work with multitasking features, some older apps or those with specific design limitations may not be compatible.

6. How many apps can I have open in split screen at once?

Only two apps can be in split screen simultaneously. However, you can have an additional app in Slide Over mode, bringing the total number of visible apps to three.

7. How do I know if an app supports split screen?

A quick way to check is to open the Dock, tap and hold an app icon, and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen. If the screen responds by showing a black bar sliding in from the side, the app supports split screen.

8. Is split screen available on all iPad models?

Split screen is available on iPad Air 2 and later, iPad Pro (all models), iPad (5th generation and later), and iPad mini 4 and later. The feature requires iPadOS 9 or later.

9. How do I make the apps in split screen the same size?

While you can adjust the ratio, there isn’t a precise way to force exactly equal sizes. Drag the center divider to the middle until it snaps, visually estimating the 50/50 split.

10. What is the difference between Slide Over and Split View?

Slide Over is a floating window that overlays another app. It takes up a smaller portion of the screen and can be easily dismissed. Split View divides the screen into two equal or adjustable sections, allowing you to interact with both apps simultaneously.

11. Can I save a split screen configuration for later use?

No, iPadOS doesn’t offer a built-in feature to save specific split screen app combinations. You’ll need to manually set up the split screen each time.

12. My screen is unresponsive after exiting split screen. What should I do?

Try force-restarting your iPad. To do this quickly press and release the volume up button, quickly press and release the volume down button, then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears. This often resolves temporary software freezes.

By mastering these techniques, you’ll be able to effortlessly navigate the world of iPad multitasking, switching between full-screen focus and productive split screen setups with ease. Embrace the power of your iPad and tailor its display to your exact needs!