Split View

Introduction

Split View is a feature found in modern operating systems that allows users to view and interact with two applications simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking, as it allows users to work on two tasks at the same time without having to switch between different application windows. The concept of Split View is rooted in the broader field of computer graphics and user interface design.

A screenshot of a computer desktop showing two applications running side by side in split view mode

History

The concept of displaying multiple applications simultaneously on a single screen dates back to the early days of computing. However, the specific implementation of Split View as we know it today can be traced back to the advent of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) in the 1980s. The first operating systems to introduce a form of Split View were the Xerox Star and the Apple Lisa, both of which allowed users to display multiple windows on the screen at the same time.

Functionality

In Split View, the screen is divided into two sections, each displaying a different application. The user can interact with both applications simultaneously, and can adjust the size of each section according to their needs. This is achieved through a combination of software and hardware capabilities, including graphics processing units (GPUs), operating systems, and display technology.

Use Cases

Split View is particularly useful in scenarios where multitasking is required. For example, a user might want to write a report while referencing a document, or watch a video while taking notes. In these scenarios, Split View allows the user to have both applications open and visible at the same time, thereby improving productivity and efficiency.

Implementation in Different Operating Systems

Different operating systems implement Split View in different ways. For example, in macOS, users can enter Split View by clicking and holding the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of a window, then choosing another open window to fill the other half of the screen. In Windows 10, users can enter Split View by dragging a window to the left or right edge of the screen. In Ubuntu, users can enter Split View by pressing the Super + Left or Super + Right keys.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Split View has several advantages. It allows for efficient multitasking, as users can work on two tasks simultaneously without having to switch between different application windows. It also allows users to make better use of their screen real estate, particularly on larger displays.

However, Split View also has some disadvantages. It can be distracting for some users, as it requires them to divide their attention between two tasks. It can also be less efficient on smaller displays, as the screen space is divided between two applications.

Future Developments

As display technology continues to evolve, it is likely that the functionality and usability of Split View will continue to improve. For example, future developments may include the ability to divide the screen into more than two sections, or to use Split View across multiple monitors.

See Also

• Computer Graphics
• User Interface Design
• Operating System
• macOS
• Windows 10
• Ubuntu