Video Showing How Apple's Unfinished Split Screen iPad Multitasking Works - MacRumors
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Video Showing How Apple's Unfinished Split Screen iPad Multitasking Works

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A new video from developer Steven Troughton-Smith has emerged on YouTube, showing off the activation of hidden code for split screen multitasking in the iOS 8 beta. The feature is shown off in the iOS simulator on Mac, hence the mouse cursor, awkward two-finger gestures and its rough overall look.


The feature was first rumored in March for introduction in iOS 8, but was pulled because it was not ready in time for WWDC. However, it was discovered just a couple of days ago that iOS 8's internal SpringBoard includes code that allows apps to run side-by-side.

In the video, the three sizes are shown (1/3, 1/2 and 3/4) when using two fingers to scroll to the side. However, it's not evident how to open a second app next to the already opened app, likely because the feature is still being developed.

Split-screen multitasking may initially be limited to the iPad Air, with support for smaller devices, like the iPad Mini and rumored 5.5-inch iPhone 6, at a later date. The feature could also make it to Apple's rumored 12.9-inch "iPad Pro" that may or may not be in development.

Top Rated Comments

arn Avatar
arn
154 months ago
Shouldn't the headline read "Video Showing How Apple's Split Screen iPad Multitasking Might Work"?

This is apples code, so it's how it works right now (internally at least)

arn
Score: 29 Votes (Like | Disagree)
M
mrobit
154 months ago
take that Microsoft

Uhh... they had the whole "multiple apps" on one screen before Apple, so I don't understand what you're getting at.
Score: 21 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Z
ZZ Bottom
154 months ago
Why do we even need that?
What's all this multitasking craze?
If there's one thing that iPad does well is to let you focus and enjoy what you're doing, without any clutter around and behind it.
That's the beauty of it.
Why on earth would you want to create a stressful experience on a device meant to be enjoyed?
It's really sad.

What's really sad is your selfishness. Look outside... worlds not revolving around you.

Crazy monotasking fanatics!
Score: 16 Votes (Like | Disagree)
2
2IS
154 months ago
Clearly, MS and Google caught wind that Apple was working on this and rushed to get their multi-tasking features out the door first. :p
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
C
childlost
154 months ago
Why do we even need that?
What's all this multitasking craze?
If there's one thing that iPad does well is to let you focus and enjoy what you're doing, without any clutter around and behind it.
That's the beauty of it.
Why on earth would you want to create a stressful experience on a device meant to be enjoyed?
It's really sad.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
HiRez Avatar
HiRez
154 months ago
Shouldn't the headline read "Video Showing How Apple's Split Screen iPad Multitasking Might Work"?
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
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