How to enable screen splitting on Xiaomi with MIUI 12: all ways

Introduction: Why you need to split the screen on Xiaomi

The split-screen (or multi-window mode) feature on Xiaomi’s MIUI 12 smartphones allows you to work with two apps simultaneously, which is convenient for comparing data, chatting with video watching, or using navigation maps in parallel with the messenger, but many users have difficulty trying to activate this mode – especially after upgrading to MIUI 12, where the interface has undergone changes.

In this article, we’ll look at all the official and hidden ways to enable split screen, and explain why the feature may not work on some models, learn how to run multiwindows through gestures, the “Recent” button, and even the Google Assistant voice assistant, and at the end, answer frequent questions and a device compatibility table.

Method 1: Activate via the “Recent Apps” button

The easiest method is to use the Recent Apps panel. It works on most Xiaomi devices running MIUI 12, including the Redmi Note 9/10, Poco X3 and the flagship Mi 10/11 series.

1. Open the first app you want to install in multi-window mode (like YouTube).
2. Click on the Recent button (square in the bottom navigation bar) or swipe up and hold your finger for 1 second.
3. At the top of the screen will appear the app icon – tap it and select the split screen (or Split screen in English firmware).
4. Select the second app from the list of recently opened ones or find it through a search.

The screen will split into two, and between the windows will appear a dividing strip, which can be dragged to change the proportions. To get out of mode, pull the strip to the edge of the screen or press Home.

Make sure that both apps support multi-windows.

Close unnecessary background processes for smooth operation

Turn off the energy saving mode (it can block the function)

Check that there are no active notifications or pop-ups on the screen-->

Method 2: Using gestures to start quickly

If your device supports gesture control (starting with the MIUI 11), you can activate split screen without the recent button. AMOLED-Displays (e.g. Mi 11 Ultra, Black Shark 4):

1. Open the first appendix.
2. Swipe up from the bottom edge and hold your finger to open the panel of recently used applications.
3. Without letting go of your finger, pull the app icon upwards – a menu with the option of split screen will appear.
4. Select the second app from the list.

⚠️ Note: On some firmware, the gesture may conflict with the launch of Google Assistant. If the feature does not work, check the gesture settings in Settings → System system → Gestures and disable conflicting combinations.

Through the "Recent" button.

Swipe gesture

Voice assistant.

I don't use multi-windows.-->

Method 3: Voice Activation via Google Assistant

Few people know, but Google Assistant can start splitting the screen with a voice command, which is convenient if you are operating a Xiaomi hands-free smartphone (for example, while driving or cooking).

1. Activate Google Assistant by saying OK, Google, or holding the Home button.
2. Say the command: Enable split screen or Split screen mode.
3. The assistant will suggest selecting two applications from the list of installed.

🔹 Restrictions: This feature only works on devices with Google Assistant preinstalled (most global firmware). MIUI). On Chinese versions (China) ROM) You may need to manually install Google services.

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If the voice command doesn’t work, upgrade the Google app to the latest version in the Play Market and restart your smartphone.

Method 4: Hidden Developer Settings

On some Xiaomi devices (such as the Poco F3 or Redmi K40), the split screen function is disabled by default in firmware, in which case it can be activated via the developer menu:

1. Go to Settings → About phone and 7 times tap on the item MIUI version to unlock the developer mode.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
3. Find the option to Enable Freeform Windows and activate it.
4. Reset the device.

After that, in the panel Recent will be able to launch a separate screen. ⚠️ Note: Not all applications work properly in freeform mode – some may be displayed in a reduced form or closed spontaneously.

Compatibility table with MIUI 12 devices

Not all Xiaomi smartphones support MIUI 12 splitting, below is the compatibility table for popular models. If your device isn't on the list, check it out on MIUI's official website.

Important: On devices with 3GB of RAM or less (such as Redmi 8A), splitting the screen may not work smoothly due to a lack of resources, in which case it is recommended to close all background applications before activating the multi-window.

Solving the Problem: Why Screen Split Doesn't Work

If you follow the instructions but the function is still not activated, check the following points:

• 📱 Update the firmware: Go to Settings → Update the software and install the latest version MIUI 12 (or) MIUI In older assemblies, the function may have been disabled.
• 🔧 Check your application settings: Some programs (like TikTok or Instagram) block multi-window mode.
• 🔄 Reset gesture settings: If you use gesture control, return the standard settings to Settings → System system → Gestures → Drop it.
• 🛠️ Clear the system cache: Go to Settings → Annexes → Application management → Three dots (menu) → Clear the cache of all applications.

If the problem persists, try resetting to factory settings (be sure to back up!) in 90% of cases, this helps to return the functionality to work.

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Before resetting, check if the MIUI Light version (MIUI Lite) mode is enabled – it disables many functions, including split screen.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions