To quickly get rid of split screen on your iPad, simply drag the divider all the way to the edge of the screen or tap the multitasking button to close one of the apps. This straightforward method will instantly free up your screen space.
If you’re struggling with split screen on your iPad, don’t worry—it’s easy to fix. Typically, you can close the split view by dragging the divider to the edge of the screen or tapping the multitasking bar and choosing to close one app. Sometimes, a simple restart or a quick tap on the home button can also do the trick. Whether you’re trying to focus on one task or just want a bigger view of your favorite app, these quick tips will help you regain full control over your screen instantly.
When using your iPad, split screen can be super handy for multitasking, but it can also be distracting or get in the way when you want a full view of an app. Luckily, exiting split screen is a breeze once you know the right steps. If you want to quickly switch back to a single app view, there are simple gestures and taps you can do. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the easiest ways to remove split screen on your iPad, whether you’re using iOS 13 or later, so you can customize your screen setup to suit your needs.
How Do I Get Rid of Split Screen on iPad?
Split screen mode on iPads allows users to view and interact with two apps side by side. While this feature is useful, sometimes you may want to close it quickly. This section explains simple methods to get rid of split screen on your iPad.
Understanding Split Screen Mode on iPad
Split screen divides your iPad screen into two sections, enabling multitasking. It’s especially helpful for comparing content or copying information between apps. However, it can also clutter your view if you only need one app at a time.
Knowing how split screen works will help you manage it more effectively. The key is to recognize how to toggle it on and off easily.
How to Exit Split Screen Using the Home Button
If your iPad has a home button, the simplest way to close split screen is by pressing it. This action will automatically exit multitasking mode and return to the home screen.
After pressing the home button, double-tap it if necessary to return to your previous app. Remember, this method works smoothly on older iPad models.
Using the Gesture to Close Split Screen
For iPads without a home button, gestures are the primary way to exit split screen. To get rid of split view, swipe the separator bar off the screen.
- Place your finger on the black divider between the two apps.
- Drag the divider all the way to either side of the screen.
- Once the divider is off-screen, only one app remains visible.
This quick gesture effectively closes the second app and exits split screen mode.
Closing the Second App via App Switcher
You can also close split screen by switching to the app switcher and closing one app. This helps if you want to keep using only one app without the split view.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle to open the app switcher.
- Find the app you want to close or remove from split view.
- Swipe the app card upwards to close it.
- The remaining app will then occupy the full screen.
Disabling Split Screen in Settings for a Permanent Fix
If split view keeps activating by mistake, you can turn off multitasking features in Settings. This prevents split screen from opening automatically.
Steps to Disable Split Screen
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Home Screen & Multitasking.
- Toggle off options like ‘Allow Multiple Apps’ or ‘Split View.’
- Close Settings and check if split screen no longer appears.
This method is perfect if you rarely use split screen and want a cleaner display.
Tips to Prevent Accidental Activation of Split Screen
Sometimes, split screen activates unintentionally. To avoid this, be cautious when handling your iPad’s gestures and controls.
- Use a firm grip when holding the device to avoid accidental swipes.
- Avoid resting your hand near the edges during navigation.
- Adjust your device’s settings to disable multitasking if you don’t need it often.
Understanding Gesture Controls for iPad Models
Different iPad models support various gestures to manage split screen. Knowing them helps in quickly closing or entering split view.
iPads with No Home Button
- Swipe up from the bottom to go home or switch apps.
- Swipe diagonally from each corner to access multitasking features.
- Drag the app divider to close split screen.
iPads with Home Button
- Press the home button to exit multitasking.
- Double-press the home button to open recent apps, then close one.
Resetting iPad Settings to Resolve Persistent Split Screen Issues
If split screen still appears even after trying the above methods, resetting your device’s settings may fix the problem. This action restores default configurations without deleting data.
- Go to Settings.
- Select General.
- Tap Reset.
- Choose Reset All Settings.
- Confirm and wait for your iPad to restart.
Remember, this approach is useful if settings related to multitasking are causing issues.
Additional Tips for Managing Multitasking on iPad
Besides closing split screen, you might want to control other multitasking features. Managing these options can improve your overall iPad experience.
- Disable Slide Over to prevent overlapping windows.
- Limit app switching gestures in Settings for easier control.
- Update your iPad’s software regularly for bug fixes and improvements.
Related Topics: Managing Multitasking and Screen Modes
Understanding how to operate various screen modes helps in customizing your iPad. Explore options like Picture in Picture, Slide Over, and Split View for a better user experience.
Using Picture in Picture Mode
This mode allows video playback while using other apps. To disable it, tap the X icon or resize the window to full screen.
Enabling or Disabling Slide Over
Slide Over lets you quickly access a second app. To manage it, go to Settings > Home Screen & Multitasking and toggle options accordingly.
Customizing Multitasking Gestures
Adjust gestures for opening multitasking features under Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Gestures. This ensures you can control screen modes comfortably.
Managing split screen mode on iPad is straightforward once you understand the gestures and settings involved. Whether you’re closing it temporarily or disabling it altogether, these tips will help keep your device clutter-free and focused on the app you want to use.
How To Get Rid Of Split Screen On iPad
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I return to a single app view after using split screen?
To switch back to a single app view, drag the divider bar towards the edge of the screen until the second app disappears. Alternatively, you can tap the Home button or swipe up from the bottom (depending on your iPad model) to exit split screen mode. The active app will then occupy the entire screen, providing a focused view.
Is there a quick way to close split screen on my iPad?
Yes, you can quickly close split screen by tapping and dragging the divider handle all the way to the edge of the screen. If you’re using an iPad with a Home button, double-tap the Home button, then swipe up on the app you want to close. For newer iPads, swipe up from the bottom to access the app switcher, then swipe the split-screen window away to close it.
Can I disable split screen permanently on my iPad?
Currently, iPads do not offer an option to disable split screen entirely. However, you can avoid accidentally entering split screen by being cautious when opening apps near the divider or by using full-screen gestures. If you want to prevent features like Dock from causing split views, you can disable the Dock temporarily in Settings, but this doesn’t completely turn off split screen functionality.
What should I do if my iPad is stuck in split screen mode?
If your iPad remains stuck in split screen, try closing the apps involved by accessing the app switcher and swiping away the split view windows. If the problem persists, perform a force restart by pressing and holding the power button and either volume button until the Apple logo appears. This refreshes the system and should resolve the issue.
How do I switch between different split screen layouts?
You can customize how split screen apps appear by dragging the divider to resize either window. To switch between the side-by-side and stacked views, move the divider accordingly. Some apps support a slide-over mode; you can access this by swiping in from the right edge of the screen, providing a floating window that you can dismiss when not needed.
Final Thoughts
To get rid of split screen on iPad, simply drag the divider all the way to the edge of the screen. Alternatively, tap the home button or swipe up from the bottom to exit split view. You can also close one app from the app switcher.
In conclusion, understanding how do I get rid of split screen on iPad helps you regain full control of your device. Use the method of dragging the divider or closing apps to easily exit split view. This ensures your iPad’s screen remains clutter-free and ready for focused use.
