Left-right split in portrait mode, expected to launch with Pixel 9 Pro Fold | Image credit — Android Authority
While this left-right split in portrait mode is a noteworthy addition, it’s not the only improvement Google has made to multitasking on Android. Android 15 introduced the ability to save split-screen app pairs to the home screen, and ongoing work on Android’s desktop mode promises to enhance freeform app windowing, especially beneficial for larger-screen devices like foldables and tablets.
It’s worth noting that split-screen multitasking isn’t entirely new to Android. It was first introduced in Android 7.0 Nougat back in 2016. However, the implementation on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, with its unique aspect ratio and resolution, represents a significant step forward in making multitasking more intuitive and efficient on mobile devices.
As the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s launch date of August 13th approaches, it remains to be seen if Google has any other surprises in store for multitasking enthusiasts. While the focus of these updates has been on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the benefits extend to other foldable devices as well. As the foldable market continues to grow, features like left-right split-screen multitasking in portrait mode will become increasingly important for maximizing the potential of these devices.
