According to reports, Google is extending split-screen support for the Gemini app to non-foldable phones. The AI assistant will now be able to run side-by-side with another app even on standard smartphones. Until now, the feature was limited to larger displays such as foldables and tablets. The company is gradually bringing it to more devices. The multitasking feature also lets users share their screen and ask the AI chatbot questions about the second app open in split view.
Split-screen Gemini on regular phones
As per an Android Authority report, Google is steadily improving Gemini’s split-screen compatibility. Currently, non-foldable phone users can open the app in split-screen mode, but they cannot properly use two apps together if one of them is Gemini.
However, this may change with Google app version 17.5.42.ve.arm64. During testing on a Pixel 9, Gemini was seen running alongside another app in split-screen view. A new function also activates when the assistant enters this mode.
Screen-sharing option
Instead of a blank screen, the app shows a button labeled “Share screen and app content.” After enabling it, Gemini can view the content displayed in the other app and answer questions based on it. This method is said to be smoother than the older overlay feature that blocked the display while the assistant responded.
How the feature works
Its behavior depends on the type of the second app:
- If the second app is a browser: Gemini reads the URL and answers using information from the webpage.
- If the app is not web-based: the AI assistant captures a screenshot, analyzes the visual information, and responds. During this process, Gemini hides its own interface to avoid confusion.
Gadgets 360 staff did not find the feature on their devices, including the recently launched iQOO 15. This suggests Google is rolling it out gradually. Until the company makes an official announcement, it remains unclear whether the feature will expand beyond Pixel smartphones.
