Using split screen on your iPad can boost productivity by allowing you to work with two apps side by side. However, there might be times when you want to exit split screen mode to focus on a single app or to free up your screen space. This guide walks you through simple, practical steps to quickly and effectively close split screen mode on your iPad, whether you’re using iPadOS 13 or later. Before you begin, ensure your iPad is updated to the latest iPadOS version for the best experience and compatibility.
What You’ll Need
- An iPad running iPadOS 13 or newer
- Basic familiarity with iPad gestures and app navigation
Step-by-Step
- Locate the divider bar: When split screen is active, you’ll see a thin vertical or horizontal line (the divider) between the two apps. This divider can be dragged to resize or close the split view.
- Tap and hold the divider: Place your finger on the divider bar and hold for about a second. This gesture signals your intention to adjust or close the split view.
- Drag the divider to the edge: While still holding, drag the divider all the way to the edge of the screen. For example, drag it to the right edge to close the left-side app, or to the top/bottom edge if your orientation is landscape or portrait.
- Release the divider: Once the divider touches the edge, release your finger. The app on that side will close, leaving only the remaining app in full-screen mode.
- Alternative method – use the multitasking controls: If you prefer, tap the three-dot handle at the top of the split view (if visible), then select ‘Close’ or drag the app out of the split view by dragging the app window to the edge of the screen.
- Verify closure: Confirm that the split screen has been cleared by checking that only one app is displayed in full-screen mode.
Common Mistakes
- Dragging the divider only partway instead of all the way to the edge, resulting in the split view remaining active.
- Trying to close split screen with a tap instead of dragging the divider, which doesn’t work on iPadOS.
- Using unsupported gestures or attempting to close split view from within an app that doesn’t support multitasking.
- Accidentally closing the entire app instead of just exiting split view, especially when trying to multitask quickly.
Tips
- Make sure your iPad is updated to the latest iPadOS version for smooth multitasking gestures.
- Use the multitasking menu (swipe up from the bottom or tap the home button) to see all open apps and manage split view more easily.
- If the divider is hard to see, try adjusting your display settings or zoom to improve visibility.
- Practice the drag-to-edge gesture to become more comfortable with closing split screen quickly.
- Remember that some apps may have restrictions on multitasking; in those cases, closing split view might require closing the app entirely.
Troubleshooting
If you’re unable to close split screen mode on your iPad, try these solutions:
- Ensure you’re using the correct gesture: Drag the divider all the way to the edge of the screen. If it’s only partially dragged, split view will remain active.
- Restart your iPad: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix gesture recognition issues. Press and hold the power button, then slide to power off. Turn it back on and try again.
- Update your iPadOS: Check for software updates in Settings > General > Software Update. Running the latest version can resolve bugs affecting multitasking gestures.
- Force close problematic apps: If an app is unresponsive, close it by swiping up from the bottom (or double-clicking the Home button), then swiping the app off the screen.
- Reset all settings: If issues persist, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This resets preferences without deleting your data but can fix configuration issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close split screen on iPad with a tap?
No, iPadOS requires dragging the divider to the edge to close split view. Tapping alone won’t close it.
What if the divider isn’t responding to drag?
Try restarting your iPad or updating to the latest iPadOS. Sometimes, gestures may not register due to temporary glitches.
Is there a shortcut to exit split screen quickly?
Currently, there’s no dedicated shortcut; the most reliable method is dragging the divider to the edge.
Can I close split view from the app switcher?
Yes, by opening the app switcher (swipe up from the bottom and pause), you can swipe the split view window off the screen or force close apps to exit split mode.
Does closing split screen close the apps involved?
No, closing split screen only exits multitasking mode, leaving the apps open in the background. You can reopen them from the app switcher later.
Is split screen available on all iPad models?
Split view is supported on iPads running iPadOS 13 or later, but some older models might have limited multitasking features.
By following these steps and tips, you can easily clear split screen mode on your iPad whenever you need to focus on a single app or free up your screen space. Practicing the drag gesture will make the process quick and intuitive, helping you manage your multitasking more efficiently.
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