Todayβs Xiaomi smartphones have enough processing power to handle tasks that were previously only possible for personal computers. One of the most popular features for increasing productivity is the ability to work with multiple applications simultaneously. Users often look for a way to make 2 screens on a Xiaomi phone, implying either split screen mode (Split Screen) or display images on an external monitor. Understanding these differences is critical to properly configuring your device.
The MIUI ecosystem and the new HyperOS have several multitasking mechanisms, which can be the classic splitting of the display into two active areas, floating windows, or full duplication of the image on the TV, and the choice of the specific method depends on your goals: whether you want to text in the messenger while watching videos or you need to present content on the big screen.
It is worth noting that the interface may vary slightly depending on the version of the operating system and the model of the smartphone. Flagship models of the Xiaomi 13 or Xiaomi 14 series support more advanced window mode features than the budget devices of the Redmi series. However, the basic principles of operation remain the same for most current firmware. Letβs consider the main ways to implement multiscreen.
Screen split mode (Split Screen)
The most popular way to have two active windows on one display is Split Screen, which allows you to run two apps side by side, occupying the top and bottom of the screen, which is ideal for those who want to read articles and respond to messages at the same time, and you can activate this mode in several ways, and each user chooses the most convenient one for themselves.
The first method involves using the latest app menu. You need to open the first app, then swipe from the bottom up (or menu button) to the list of tasks you have started. Find the desired application, click on the icon from the top of the window (or hold your finger on the preview, depending on the version of MIUI). In the menu that appears, select Divide the screen. After that, the system will suggest select the second app for the bottom of the display.
There's also a faster way through the control panel. Some versions of the shell have a sidebar of tools available. You can run the first application, then swipe the sidebar from the edge of the screen and drag the second application from the list into the workspace. The system will automatically divide the space. To change the proportions of the windows, use the central dividing line, dragging it up or down.
π‘
To quickly exit split screen mode, drag the center band completely up or down, or press the Home button.
It's important to understand that not all apps support this feature. Social networks and browsers usually work correctly, but some games or specialized software can be forced to unfold to the full screen. If an application does not want to open in the second window, then the developer did not put this feature in the code of the program, in which case you can not make two full screens.
Floating Windows and Parallel Applications
Alternatives to rigid splitting are floating windows, which allows you to run the app on top of the main screen, creating a second screen effect that you can move around the display. In Xiaomi settings, this feature is often called βfloating windowsβ or βSidebarβ, which gives you more flexibility, since the window size can be changed dynamically.
To activate, open the app, then call the multitasking menu. Click on the extension icon or select the floating window option. The app will fold into a mobile widget that you can drag around the screen. This is especially convenient for a calculator, notes or video player. You can continue typing text in a document while the video is played in the corner.
The Parallel Apps feature (or App Cloning) is a feature that allows you to run two instances of the same app at the same time, for example, you can sit on two different WhatsApp or Telegram accounts, which are not exactly two screens in the physical sense, but functionally solves the problem of simultaneously accessing different data.
- π± Sidebar β quick access to frequently used applications in the form of floating windows.
- π Cloning β running two independent copies of a single application (for example, for two SIM cards).
- πΌοΈ Scaling β the ability to change the size of the floating window with your fingers.
It is worth remembering that the operation of several active windows significantly loads the processor and RAM. If you have a budget model of a smartphone with 4 GB of RAM, the system can automatically unload background applications. In this case, the floating window can be periodically restarted. For stable operation of two or more windows, it is recommended to have at least 6 GB of free RAM.
Connecting an external monitor or TV
If you mean "make 2 screens" and you mean you're going to take a picture from your phone to a big monitor, you're talking about Miracast technology or wired connectivity. Xiaomi supports wireless image transmission, which allows you to stream a picture to any Smart TV or Xiaomi Mi Stick, which turns the phone into a remote control and the TV into a second screen.
For wireless connectivity, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Lower the notification curtain on your smartphone and find the Broadcast (or "Cast") icon. Your phone will start looking for available devices. Select your TV in the list. Once paired, the image from your phone will appear on the big screen. You can roll up the phone and use it while the video or presentation continues on the TV.
Wired connectivity requires support for the DisplayPort Alt Mode standard via a USB Type-C connector. Not all Xiaomi models support video output via cable. The Mi and Xiaomi flagships usually have this feature, while budget Redmis often lack it. If support is available, just connect the USB-C to HDMI cable to the phone and monitor.
| Type of connection | Equipment required | Delay. | Quality. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wireless (Miracast) | Smart TV, Wi-Fi router | Tall. | Depends on the signal. |
| Wireless (HDMI) | USB-C cable to HDMI | Minimum | Stable 4K/60Hz |
| Chromecast | The console or built-in Chromecast | Medium | High. |
With wired methods, the phone can go into a special mode that resembles a desktop PC, especially for newer versions of HyperOS, which claim support for the desktop interface, in which the application windows can be placed arbitrarily, like on a computer, effectively using a large TV screen.
Set up an extended desktop in HyperOS
With the release of HyperOS, Xiaomi has implemented improved algorithms for working with windows. The new system better allocates resources between running applications. Owners of Xiaomi Pad tablets and foldable Fold smartphones appreciated the ability to run up to three windows at a time.
The new settings have the option to control the behavior of applications when you turn the device. You can adjust which applications will run in landscape mode with an extended interface. This creates the feeling of working with two information screens. Go to Settings β Special features β Windows management (the path can vary).
Hidden functions for developers
And it's also worth mentioning the Second Space feature, which is not really about two screens at once, but it's a fully isolated environment inside the phone. You can switch between the main profile and the second space, just like between two different phones, there can be apps, photos and accounts, and you can switch through a password or a fingerprint in a second.
To activate Second Space, go to Settings β Additional β Second Space. The system will suggest creating a new profile. It's a great way to separate work and personal affairs. One space has work messengers and emails, and the other space has games and social networks, and the data doesn't overlap.
Use of third-party applications for multi-conference
If standard MIUI is not enough, Google Play offers a variety of solutions, third-party launchers and utilities can emulate multiple windows more flexibly, but be careful: these applications require broad permissions and can consume a lot of battery.
One popular solution is to use tab-sharing browsers or special shell apps, which create a virtual environment within which multiple copies of Android apps can be run, and this is often used for games to run multiple accounts at the same time (multi-accounting).
β οΈ Warning: Installing applications from unknown sources for window cloning can lead to a leak of personal data. Use only proven high-ranking programs and carefully read the permissions they request. Do not enter passwords from banking applications in questionable shells.
When choosing software, pay attention to the requirements for the Android version. Many advanced multi-window features only work on Android 12 and higher. If you have an older firmware version, the functionality may be limited. Before installing, check compatibility in the application description.
- π‘οΈ Security β Check the app developer before installing.
- β‘ Performance β background processes can slow down the phone.
- π Power consumption β working multiple copies of applications quickly drains the battery.
Solving Screen Split Problems
Users often experience a split-screen function that is not working or is not working properly. The screen may flash, applications may crash, or the split button may not be on the menu. Most often, the problem lies in the power saving settings or the limitations of a particular application.
If the split button doesn't appear, try updating the app to the latest version. Also check if Full Screen Mode is enabled for specific applications in the screen settings. Sometimes the system blocks separation if it thinks the app isn't optimized for this. In some cases, cleaning the Security service cache or rebooting the device helps.
βοΈ Diagnostics of Split Screen problems
Another common problem is that the interface is not displayed correctly, and the buttons can become too small or the text can overlap, because the application can't scale half the screen, so you can try resizing the font in the display settings or zoom in.
β οΈ Warning: If you try to split the screen, the phone freezes or goes into reboot, it may indicate a critical system error. Try booting in safe mode. If the problem persists, you may need to reset or flash the device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I run three apps simultaneously in split screen mode?
Why is splitting the screen on YouTube not working?
Does split screen affect the speed of the phone?
How to turn off splitting of the screen if I accidentally activated it?
π‘
The split screen feature is a powerful tool for increasing productivity, but it requires enough RAM to run smoothly.
In conclusion, creating two screens on a Xiaomi phone is an affordable feature that turns a smartphone into a powerful tool for work and entertainment.Whether it's splitting the display, floating windows or output to a TV, Xiaomi's ecosystem offers flexible solutions. Experiment with settings to find the perfect balance for your tasks.