Android’s split-screen multitasking has received notable upgrades in 2025, particularly with the introduction of a new 90/10 split-screen ratio in Android 16 and leading custom interfaces like Samsung’s One UI 8 [1] [5] [6]. This mode allows one app to occupy 90% of the screen while the other remains in a slim 10% sliver. Tapping the smaller app swaps their positions instantly, providing fast, fluid multitasking while letting users keep a minor app (like a chat, notes, or calculator) accessible without sacrificing most of the display [5] [6].
Key details on split-screen in Android 2025:
- Old ratios (like 50/50, 70/30, and 75/25) are still available; the 90/10 split is an additional option rather than a replacement [1] [5] [6].
- The new 90/10 configuration is especially useful for taller displays and foldable devices, reflecting Android’s focus on optimizing multitasking as these form factors become more common [1] [6].
- On Samsung devices, One UI 8 users experience this feature as a preview of Android 16’s full launch. The setup makes switching between apps even faster, often using gestures or taps rather than the recent apps menu [1].
- The existing split-screen activation process remains: choose an app, open the recent apps view, tap its icon, and select split screen; then pick a second app to fill the remaining area [2] [3].
- You can still exit split-screen by dragging the divider fully up or down, or swap app positions by tapping the minimized window [5] [6].
- Most manufacturers (e.g., Motorola, HONOR, Samsung) support this, and the steps and gestures are broadly similar in 2025 devices [2] [3] [10].
This update is considered a significant step for multitasking, particularly for power users and those on larger or foldable Android devices [1] [5] [6].
Caveat: The 90/10 split might not be available on every Android device or might require enabling developer/beta features in mid-2025, especially outside Samsung or select brands [1] [5].