Google's Exciting Development: Enhanced Split-Screen Mode for Upcoming Foldable Phones

Google’s Exciting Development: Enhanced Split-Screen Mode for Upcoming Foldable Phones

July 2, 2024

Google is enhancing multitasking capabilities on the upcoming Pixel 9 Pro Fold with a new split-screen mode that allows users to run apps side-by-side, even in portrait mode. This feature, unique to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, is made possible by its nearly square aspect ratio, enabling left-right splits in portrait mode for a more practical multitasking experience.

Key points to note about the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s split-screen mode:

– Most Android smartphones only support top-bottom splits in portrait mode due to their rectangular screens.
– The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is rumored to have a square aspect ratio, allowing for left-right splits in portrait mode.
– This functionality was first introduced in Android 14 QPR2 and has been refined in subsequent updates.
– Code references in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) mention the “Pixel Fold 2,” indicating this feature is tailored for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
– The display resolution of 2,076 x 2,152 in portrait mode enables optimal multitasking with the left-right split option.

While the left-right split in portrait mode is a significant enhancement, Google has also introduced other improvements to multitasking on Android devices. With Android 15, users can save split-screen app pairs to the home screen. Additionally, ongoing work on Android’s desktop mode aims to enhance freeform app windowing, particularly beneficial for larger-screen devices like foldables and tablets.

Although split-screen multitasking isn’t new to Android and was first introduced in Android 7.0 Nougat back in 2016, its implementation on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a leap forward in making multitasking more intuitive and efficient on mobile devices. As we approach the August 13th launch date of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, it will be interesting to see if Google has any more surprises up its sleeve for multitasking enthusiasts.

The focus may be on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but the benefits of these updates extend to other foldable devices as well. With the growing popularity of foldable smartphones and tablets, features like left-right split-screen multitasking in portrait mode play a crucial role in maximizing these devices’ potential. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as Google continues to innovate in the realm of mobile multitasking!