A New Way to Multitask Like a Pro
Hey there! Imagine you’re watching a YouTube video but need to reply to a text real quick. Or maybe you’re reading an article but want to keep your calendar handy. Sounds like a juggling act, right? Well, Google’s got some exciting news for Android fans. Android Canary kicks off with a first look at 90:10 split screen apps, and it’s here to make multitasking on your phone feel like a breeze. This new feature lets one app take up most of your screen while another sits in a tiny sliver, ready to swap places with just a tap. It’s like having a superpower for your phone in 2025! Let’s dive into what this means, how it works, and why it’s such a big deal.
What’s the Android Canary All About?
Okay, let’s break it down. The Android Canary is like a sneak peek into the future of Android. It’s a special program where Google tests brand-new features before they’re ready for everyone. Think of it as a playground for developers and super curious Pixel users who want to try stuff that’s still being polished. It’s not for the faint-hearted, though—Canary builds can be buggy, and installing one might mean wiping your phone if you want to go back to normal. But for those who love being first, it’s a chance to see cool things like the 90:10 split screen before anyone else.
Why Split Screen Matters in 2025
Phones today have tall, gorgeous screens, but let’s be real—sometimes it’s hard to use two apps at once. Maybe you’ve tried split screen before, where one app takes the top half and another takes the bottom. It’s handy, but it can feel cramped, like trying to write an essay and check your email on a tiny desk. The 90:10 split screen is Google’s way of fixing that. It gives one app most of the space (90%) while the other chills in a small strip (10%). Need to switch? Just tap, and they swap places. It’s fast, it’s smooth, and it’s perfect for how we use our phones in 2025.
Latest Updates for 2025: What’s New with 90:10 Split Screen
Google’s been working on this 90:10 split screen idea for a while, and it’s finally showing up in the Android Canary release. Here’s the scoop on what’s fresh in 2025:
- More Flexibility: Unlike the older 50:50 or 70:30 split screen options, 90:10 lets you focus on one app while keeping another ready to jump in. It’s like having a main stage and a sidekick.
- Quick Swapping: Tap the smaller app, and it zooms to take over 90% of the screen, pushing the other one down. No fuss, no dragging.
- Pixel Power: Right now, this feature is being tested on Pixel phones (from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9, plus the Pixel Fold and Tablet). If you’ve got one of these, you could try it out—if you’re brave enough for Canary!
- Not Just Google: Samsung’s already jumped on this with their One UI 8 beta, and it’s inspired by a cool feature from OnePlus called Open Canvas. Google’s taking the best ideas and making them available for everyone.
This isn’t just a random tweak—it’s a big step toward making your phone feel more like a mini-computer. And with Android 16 on the horizon, we might see even more multitasking tricks soon.
Benefits of the 90:10 Split Screen
So, why should you care about this new split screen thing? Let’s talk about why it’s awesome:
- Focus Without Losing Access: Imagine you’re taking notes in Google Keep but need to peek at a webpage in Chrome. With 90:10, your notes get most of the screen, and Chrome’s just a tap away in a tiny strip. No more flipping back and forth like a ping-pong ball.
- Perfect for Small Screens: On a phone, a 50:50 split can make both apps feel squished. The 90:10 ratio gives you enough room to actually use the main app comfortably.
- Super Fast Switching: Need to reply to a message while watching a video? Tap the messaging app in the 10% sliver, and it takes over. It’s like switching TV channels, but for apps.
- Great for Productivity: Whether you’re copying info between apps, checking your calendar while emailing, or keeping a map open while texting, this setup makes you feel like a multitasking ninja.
- Inspired by the Best: Google borrowed this idea from OnePlus’s Open Canvas, which got tons of love from users. If it’s good enough for OnePlus fans, it’s probably going to rock on your Android too.
How Does the 90:10 Split Screen Actually Work?
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. How do you use this fancy new feature? Here’s a step-by-step guide to what it looks like (based on what we know from the Canary release):
- Open Split Screen Mode: Start by opening two apps you want to use together. Go to your recent apps view (swipe up and hold, or however your phone does it), tap an app’s icon, and choose “Split screen.”
- Pick Your Apps: Select the first app, then pick a second one to share the screen. Normally, they’d split 50:50 or 70:30, but in the Canary build, you can push it to 90:10.
- Adjust the Ratio: Drag the divider between the apps to shrink one down to 10% and give the other 90%. On tall phone screens, this usually means one app is a thin strip at the top or bottom.
- Swap with a Tap: Want the small app to take over? Just tap it, and it’ll zoom to 90% while the other shrinks. It’s like a magic trick, but for productivity.
- Exit When Done: When you’re finished, drag the divider all the way up or down, or just exit split screen mode like usual.
Sounds simple, right? That’s because it is! Google’s made sure it’s easy to use, even if you’re not a tech wizard.
A Quick Note for Pixel Fans
If you’re thinking about trying this on your Pixel, hold up! The Canary build is super experimental. It’s like eating cookie dough before it’s baked—tasty, but you might get a stomachache (or a buggy phone). You’ll need to flash the Canary build using the Android Flash Tool, and if you want to go back to a normal Android version, you’ll have to wipe your phone. So, maybe wait for this feature to hit the stable Android 16 release unless you’re a developer or just really love living on the edge.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Split Screen
Even though the 90:10 split screen is awesome, it’s easy to mess up if you’re not careful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Canary on Your Main Phone: The Canary build is not for everyday use. It’s buggy, and you might lose data if you have to reset your phone. Stick to a spare device if you want to test it.
- Forgetting to Swap Apps: The whole point of 90:10 is quick switching. Don’t just leave the small app sitting there—tap it to make it big when you need it!
- Picking the Wrong Apps: Not every app plays nice in split screen. Some might look weird in the 10% sliver, so test different combos to find what works best.
- Expecting It Everywhere: Right now, this is a Canary feature, and even when it hits Android 16, not all phones might support it right away. Check if your device is compatible.
- Overcomplicating Things: If you don’t need split screen, don’t force it. Sometimes, swiping between apps is faster than setting up a 90:10 view.
Who’s This Feature For?
The 90:10 split screen isn’t just for tech nerds—it’s for anyone who uses their phone for more than one thing at a time. Here’s who’ll love it:
- Students: Taking notes while reading a PDF? Checking a study guide while answering quiz questions? This feature’s got your back.
- Professionals: Keep your email open while referencing a calendar or spreadsheet. It’s like having a second monitor in your pocket.
- Gamers: Okay, maybe not for playing games, but you could keep a walkthrough or chat open while gaming.
- Social Media Buffs: Reply to messages while scrolling through your feed without missing a beat.
- Everyone Else: If you’ve ever wanted to do two things at once on your phone without pulling your hair out, this is for you.
What’s Next for Android Multitasking?
The 90:10 split screen is just the start. Google’s been cooking up other cool multitasking ideas for Android 16 and beyond. Here’s a peek at what might be coming:
- Three Apps at Once: On tablets or foldables, Android 16 might let you run three apps in split screen. Imagine a note-taking app, a browser, and a calculator all at once!
- Bubble Anything: Google’s working on a feature that lets any app float in a little bubble, like Facebook Messenger’s chat heads. Pop it open, pop it closed—super handy.
- Desktop Mode: For those times you plug your phone into a monitor, Android’s testing a desktop-like mode that makes your phone feel like a computer.
- Better App Support: Google’s pushing developers to make their apps work better in split screen, so fewer apps will act wonky in 90:10 mode.
With Android 16 expected to drop around June 2025, we’re probably just months away from seeing the 90:10 split screen in a stable release. And who knows? Maybe Samsung, OnePlus, or other brands will add their own twists to make it even cooler.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Split Screen
Want to be a split screen superstar? Here are some quick tips to make the most of the 90:10 feature (or any split screen mode):
- Choose Complementary Apps: Pair apps that work well together, like a browser and a note-taking app, or a messaging app and a video player.
- Practice the Tap: Get used to tapping the small app to swap it to the big side. It’s faster than dragging the divider.
- Use Landscape Mode: On some phones, turning your phone sideways makes split screen feel more natural, especially for media apps.
- Check Your Settings: Some Android phones have extra split screen tricks, like Samsung’s app pairs, which let you save two apps to open together.
- Be Patient: If you’re using the Canary build, expect glitches. Report bugs to Google to help make the feature better for everyone.
Why This Matters for Android’s Future
Let’s zoom out for a second. Phones are getting more powerful every year, and we’re using them for more than just texting and scrolling. The 90:10 split screen is part of Google’s plan to make Android feel like a true multitasking machine. It’s not just about showing off—it’s about making your phone work the way you do. Whether you’re a student, a worker, or just someone who loves messing around with tech, this feature is a step toward a smoother, more flexible phone experience.
Plus, it shows Google’s listening to what people want. They saw how much everyone loved OnePlus’s Open Canvas and said, “Hey, let’s make that a thing for all Android users!” That’s the kind of teamwork we love to see in the Android world.
Conclusion: Get Ready to Multitask Like Never Before
So, there you have it—Android Canary’s 90:10 split screen is like a magic wand for your phone. It lets you juggle apps with ease, keep your focus where it matters, and switch between tasks faster than you can say “multitasking.” Whether you’re a Pixel owner itching to try it in the Canary build or just excited for Android 16, this feature’s going to make your phone feel smarter and more fun to use. Keep an eye out for it in 2025, and get ready to take your phone game to the next level. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the one showing your friends how to master split screen like a pro!
FAQs: Your Questions, Answered
1. What’s the Android Canary release, and is it safe to use?
It’s an early, experimental version of Android for developers and tech enthusiasts. It’s got cool features like the 90:10 split screen, but it can be buggy. Unless you’re okay with glitches or have a spare phone, wait for the stable release.
2. Which phones can use the 90:10 split screen right now?
In the Canary build, it’s available on Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 to Pixel 9, plus the Pixel Fold and Tablet. Samsung’s One UI 8 beta also has it for some devices.
3. Do I need to be a developer to try this feature?
Nope! But you need to be comfortable flashing a Canary build onto your Pixel, which is a bit technical and risky. Most people should wait for Android 16.
4. Will the 90:10 split screen work on all apps?
Most apps should work, but some might not look great in the 10% sliver. Google’s working to make more apps split-screen-friendly in Android 16.
5. Can I go back to 50:50 or 70:30 split screen?
Yup! The 90:10 option is just an extra choice. You can still use the older ratios if they work better for you.
6. When will this feature be available for everyone?
It’s expected to roll out with Android 16, likely around June 2025. Keep your phone updated, and you’ll probably see it then!
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