Ah, the beauty of technology! Remember when tablets were just… well, simple tablets? Now, they’re more like mini computers, especially iPads. One of the most innovative features Apple introduced is the split screen (aka Split View). It lets you use two apps side by side. It’s a bit like having two TV screens in one room, each playing a different show.
Why would you want to get rid of it?
Sometimes, it’s just too much. Ever tried to watch two TV shows at the same time? Confusing, right? Similarly, not everyone loves the split screen feature. Some folks find it a distraction, especially when it pops up unintentionally.
Steps to Disable Split Screen
Exiting Split Screen View Immediately
Swipe Gesture Method
Let’s keep it simple, shall we? If you’re caught in the split screen snare, just swipe down from the top of the secondary app (the one on the right). It’s like shooing away a fly – quick and easy!
Home Button Tactic
Still rocking an iPad with a home button? Good for you! Double click it. This will show the App Switcher. Swipe up on the app you want to close. It’s like flipping a book shut.
Turning Off Split View Completely
Through the Settings App
Want to go nuclear and turn it off completely? Head to Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Multitasking. Toggle off the “Allow Multiple Apps”. It’s like putting a ‘Do Not Disturb‘ sign on your door.
Considering the Side Over Feature
While here, remember the Slide Over feature? If you find that annoying too, the above step takes care of it. It’s like buying one, getting one free!
Advantages of Disabling Split Screen
Enhanced Focus
When you don’t have two things vying for your attention, it’s easier to focus, right? The same applies here.
Streamlined iPad Experience
With the split screen turned off, your iPad feels more like the good ol’ days. Pure, undivided attention.
More Screen Real Estate
More screen for a single app means a clearer, bigger view. It’s like watching a movie on a big screen instead of your phone!
Times When You Might Reconsider Using Split Screen
Multitasking on the Go
If you’re working, say, comparing two documents, the split screen can be a lifesaver. It’s like having a double-decker sandwich – filling and efficient!
Studying or Researching
Cross-referencing? The split screen might just be your study buddy.
Casual Browsing
Ever wanted to watch a video and chat simultaneously? That’s when you’d thank the tech gods for the split screen.
Conclusion
The split screen on the iPad can be both a blessing and a bane. Like most things, it’s all about what you need. Now, whether you choose to embrace or ditch it, at least you know how. It’s your iPad; tailor it to your taste.
FAQs
- Can I turn the split screen feature back on?
- Absolutely! Just follow the steps in reverse.
- Does turning off split screen affect my iPad’s performance?
- Not at all! It just changes how you interact with multiple apps.
- I’ve turned off split screen but I can still see a Slide Over window. Why?
- Slide Over and Split View are different. Slide Over lets you have a floating app over another. You can swipe it away.
- Will I miss out on any other features if I turn off split screen?
- Only the multitasking ones. Everything else remains the same.
- Is split screen available on all iPad models?
- No, only on iPads that support multitasking.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
