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iOS 8 Likely to Bring Split-Screen Multitasking to the iPad

Tuesday May 13, 2014 7:05 am PDT by Kelly Hodgkins
Apple may advance the functionality of the iPad by adding a new split-screen multitasking feature to the tablet in iOS 8, reports 9to5Mac. The option would allow iPad owners to use two apps simultaneously on a single screen in landscape mode, a function frequently touted by Microsoft as an advantage for its Surface tablets over the iPad.


Previous concept for split-screen multitasking (not based on specific rumors)

Besides allowing the operation of multiple apps at the same time, the feature also may allow users to share data such as links and images between apps. The integration of this sharing functionality suggests Apple may open up support for XPC services in iOS, making it easier for developers to share content between apps.
In addition to allowing for two iPad apps to be used at the same time, the feature is designed to allow for apps to more easily interact, according to the sources. For example, a user may be able to drag content, such as text, video, or images, from one app to another. Apple is said to be developing capabilities for developers to be able to design their apps to interact with each other.
The multitasking feature, which is said to work in landscape mode only, is likely to land in the 9.7-inch iPad, with its extension to the smaller iPad mini unclear at this time. It may also be a critical feature for the rumored iPad Pro, which may ship sometime in 2015 with a 12-inch display.

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Razeus
64 months ago
And hopefully multi user accounts.
Rating: 72 Votes
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andrew0122
64 months ago
I didn't know Apple was going to start copying Samsung Tablets...
Rating: 42 Votes
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Michaelgtrusa
64 months ago
It was a long wait, but worth it.
Rating: 20 Votes
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H2SO4
64 months ago
Someone will soon talk about a lack of RAM...... :?
Rating: 19 Votes
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Reason077
64 months ago
Ugh. Do we really need this? It's the kind of feature where the idea seems better than the reality. The vast majority of users would never bother with it.

The iPad needs multi-user support much more desperately.
Rating: 19 Votes
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Donoban
64 months ago

I didn't know Apple was going to start copying Samsung Tablets...


It's a windows 8 feature. Personally I can't see much advantage but sure, could be cool to run two apps really laggy on my iPad 3. Lolz.
Rating: 16 Votes
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Alphabetize
64 months ago
I'm looking forward to more Desktop-esque features on the iPad, otherwise it's just going to sit in my desk drawer doing nothing.
Rating: 12 Votes
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xFerrr
64 months ago

And hopefully multi user accounts.


that aint happening since most of iDevices are for personal use.
Rating: 10 Votes
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Bare
64 months ago
It's funny that so many of us have to wait so long to be able to do these kinds of things with our devices. Yeah, way to go, Windows tablets -- you can already do this. And the iPad should already do this. But it doesn't make me or millions of others want your tablet. Instead, we wait.
Rating: 10 Votes
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DavidLeblond
64 months ago
My Galaxy S5 has that feature. I've never used it. I played with it once and then disabled it.
Rating: 8 Votes

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