How to Use Multi Window on Samsung Galaxy Phones

With the launch of the Galaxy Note in 2011, Samsung pioneered the big screen trend in the smartphone world. Over time, the company introduced new features to take advantage of every growing smartphone screen. In addition, Samsung has implemented add-ons such as one-handed mode and Multi-Window to let you navigate the operating system like a multitasking geek.

The Korean company now has the Fold and Flip series in its portfolio. That’s why it’s more important than ever to master one-handed mode and Multi-Window tricks to view more apps at once on a foldable screen. But these tricks are also available for regular Galaxy smartphones.

Google took some cues from One UI to improve multitasking on Android, but the overall app remains superior on a Samsung phone. Here’s how to use Multi Window on all Samsung Galaxy phones running One UI.

What is Multi Window on Samsung Galaxy Phones?

As the name suggests, Multi Windows lets you open multiple application windows on your home screen. You can minimize these app windows, move them to other apps, and have them ready to serve you content with a single tap.

It’s a useful addition, especially on a screen with a longer aspect ratio. Still, Samsung didn’t stop there. You can create a pair of apps with app pairs in the Edge panel and launch two apps in split view with one tap.

Those who use a Galaxy Note device with an S-pen will find it more useful because of the S-pen’s sensitivity and a giant screen for moving around in app windows.

How to Enable Multi-Window for an App

Samsung has integrated the Multi Window functionality into the multitasking menu. Unlike one-handed mode, there are no awkward gestures to enable or disable Multi Window on your Galaxy phones. Here’s how to use it.

Stage 1: Open the application you want to use as a Multi Window.

Step 2: Swipe up from the bottom and hold to reveal the multitasking menu.

Stage 3: Keep the app in focus from the multitasking menu and tap the app icon.

Step 4: Tap on open in popup and it will create an app window for the selected app.

You can continue to use the application as before and view other content on the screen.

Multiple Window Options

The Multi Window feature is not limited to just creating floating application windows. You can minimize them, play with transparency, use them in full screen mode and even resize the application windows to your preference. Follow our short guide below to perform these actions.

How to Minimize Multi Window on Samsung Galaxy Phones

When you create an application window using the Multi Window function, you will see a small indicator at the top. Tap on it and select the two arrow icons as shown in the screenshot. It will minimize the app and place it in the upper right corner. You can long tap on it and place the app icon anywhere on the screen.

Tap the app icon to enlarge the app and expand the view.

How to Change Multi Window Transparency

In true Samsung style, the Multi Window plugin is feature rich. For example, you can play with application transparency when used in Multi Window mode.

Create an application window and tap the little indicator at the top. Select the second transparency icon and use the slider to keep the transparency in the position you want. By default, it is set to the highest level. However, you can turn the volume down to create a translucent effect.

How to Expand Multi-Window in a Fullscreen App

You can exit the Multi Window view at any time and expand the application in full screen mode. Here’s how to do it.

When the app is in multi-window mode, tap the top indicator and select the expand icon to view the app in full screen mode.

Use the steps in the first method and you can convert the app back to multi-window.

How to Close Pop-up Viewport

When an app is opened in Multi Window, you can minimize it using the trick mentioned above. From there, simply drag and drop the app icon at the bottom and close it.

Can I Use Multiple Apps in Multi Window View?

Yes you can. You can add as many applications as possible to the Multi Window view. When you minimize them, they will be gathered under a single app icon on the screen. You can tap on it and expand the list.

While most apps support the Multi Window feature, social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat are missing the plugin. you will not see Open in pop-up view option when you tap the app icon in the multitasking menu.

Multitask Like a Pro on Your Samsung Phone

Other OEMs have tried to implement Samsung Multi Window into their Android skins. But so far, Samsung’s take on One UI remains the best among them. Do not accumulate too many applications using the Multi Window function; otherwise you have less RAM to play with other apps.

As expected, the Multi Window function works best on flagship Samsung phones with more RAM and power. On the other hand, expect somewhat sluggish performance on low-end and mid-range Galaxy phones.

Next: Digital Wellbeing is another nice addition to Samsung Galaxy phones. Read the post below to learn how to use it on your Galaxy phone running One UI.