Some Pixel phones are getting Gemini's split-screen multitasking.

Gemini previously released a split-screen interface for large-screen Android devices like foldable phones (such as the Samsung Galaxy Z and Google Pixel Fold) and tablets (like the Samsung Galaxy Tab and Google Pixel Tablet). Google is now extending this multitasking capability to standard smartphones. The feature has currently been observed on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, running beta version 16.35.63.sa.arm64 beta of the Google app.

To use Gemini's split-screen, open an app and activate the Gemini overlay. Drag the Gemini bar upwards to enter split-screen mode, which divides the screen into two halves with Gemini and the open app stacked vertically. On foldable devices, the split can be arranged horizontally by moving the Gemini bar to the left or right.

The availability of this feature is currently limited, and it is not yet present on devices like the Pixel 10 Pro XL. On a Pixel 6 Pro without the beta Google app, dragging the Gemini bar up will only open the full-screen version of Gemini, indicating whether the feature is active.

Android phones can also activate split screen through the recent apps menu. Tap the app's icon at the top of the preview, and select "Split screen" from the menu. Then, pick another app to pair it with. To exit, swipe the split-screen display off the top of the screen.

Using two apps simultaneously enhances multitasking, as switching between them requires only a swipe. Google is now enabling the Gemini bar to create split screens on standard Galaxy and Pixel phones, expanding beyond foldable models and tablets.

Split-screen functionality might not appeal to all users, regardless of whether it's accessed via the Gemini bar or the recent apps carousel. However, it offers two alternative methods for entering split-screen mode when needed, with the Gemini overlay potentially being the easier option.

Split-screen mode was introduced on Android in 2016 with Android 7.0 Nougat. Prior to that, some manufacturers like Samsung had their own versions of the feature.

The writer hopes that Google will extend this feature to the Pixel 6 series. While admitting to rarely using split-screen mode, they use Gemini as a digital assistant and might find value in using the Gemini bar to create split-screen views.

The writer also announces a forthcoming book, "Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips," which chronicles the technological revolution of the 21st century.