Dividing the screen on Xiaomi Redmi Note: how to turn on and use multi-window mode

The split screen feature on Xiaomi Redmi Note smartphones allows you to work with two applications simultaneously – for example, chat in the messenger and watch videos, or compare prices in the browser without switching between windows. Despite the obvious benefits, many users do not know how to activate this mode, especially after updating the MIUI firmware. In this article, we will analyze all the available ways to enable multi-window, including hidden settings and solutions for older models.

It is important to understand that split-screen capabilities depend on the MIUI shell version and the Redmi Note model. For example, in MIUI 14 the algorithm differs from MIUI 12, and on budget devices (for example, Redmi Note 8) gesture support may not be available. We will look at universal methods that work on most devices in the series, as well as alternative options for cases where standard functionality is not available.

What is Screen Sharing and Why You Need It

Split screen mode (or split screen) is a feature that divides the smartphone display into two independent areas, each of which can run a separate application, such as:

• 📱 messenger + YouTube: chatting and watching videos at the same time.
• 📊 browser + Calculator: compare data and perform calculations.
• 🗺️ Maps. + Music: Navigation with background playback of tracks.
• 📝 Notes + Gallery: Make notes on photos.

On the Xiaomi Redmi Note, this mode is implemented through the proprietary shell MIUI, but its operation depends on several factors:

• 🔹 Version. MIUI (into MIUI 12 and the newer interface is different).
• 🔹 Smartphone model (on Redmi Note 10 Pro and newer, gestures are supported).
• 🔹 Developer settings (sometimes you need to activate hidden options).

If you’ve never used split screen, try it first in standard scenarios, such as watching YouTube videos while reading Telegram comments, which will help you evaluate the convenience of the feature before setting up.

Official way: Incorporate through multitasking

The easiest way to activate split screen on the Xiaomi Redmi Note is to use the multitasking menu, which works on most models with MIUI 11 and later, including the Redmi Note 9/10/11/12.

1. Open the first app you want to secure (like Chrome).
2. Click on the “Recent Apps” button** (square or swipe up with a delay).
3. In the multitasking menu, find the app icon and hold it with your finger for 1-2 seconds.
4. In the menu that appears, select Split Screen (or Split Screen).
5. Select the second app from the list or from the home screen.

The screen will then split into two parts, and you can adjust the window size by dragging the dividing line up or down, pulling the line to the edge of the screen to exit the mode, or pressing the "Close" button (the cross in the center of the separator).

Update MIUI to the latest version |Close unnecessary apps in the background |Make sure both apps support multi-window |Disable energy saving mode (may block the function)

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If the option is not in the multitasking menu, it can mean:

• 🔸 The app does not support mode (such as certain games or banking programs).
• 🔸 Function disabled in system settings.
• 🔸 Installed custom firmware without support MIUI-fit.

Activation through system settings (for MIUI 12/13/14)

In newer versions of MIUI (starting with MIUI 12), the split screen function can be hidden in additional settings to enable it:

1. Go to Settings → Special features → System functions.
2. Find the option "Separate screen" (or "Multiwindow") and activate the switch.
3. In some firmware, the path may differ: Settings → Screen → Screen split.

If the item is not in the menu, try to enable it through the developer settings:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and click on MIUI Version 7 times.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
3. Find the option to Enable free form windows (or Force resize activities) and activate it.
4. Reboot your smartphone.

Important: Activating developer mode and changing system settings can cause some applications to run in an unstable manner, and use this method only if the standard methods don't work.

Splitting the screen with gestures (for new models)

Starting with the Redmi Note 9 and later (with MIUI 12 and above), it became possible to activate split screen gesture, which is more convenient than the classic method, since it does not require you to go to the multitasking menu.

1. Open the first appendix.
2. Swipe from the bottom up and hold your finger in the center of the screen (as when calling up the menu of recent apps).
3. Without letting go of your finger, pull the app icon left or right to the edge of the screen.
4. Release your finger – the screen will split and you can select the second app.

If the gesture doesn't work, check:

• 🔹 Are navigation gestures included in Settings? → Screen. → Navigation through the system.
• 🔹 Is the function disabled in Settings? → Special opportunities → Gestures.
• 🔹 Is the firmware updated to the latest version (in old builds gestures may not work correctly).

On the Redmi Note 8/8T and older models, split-screen gesture control is not supported – use the method via the multitasking menu.

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If the gesture doesn’t work the first time, try to make it slower by holding your finger for 1-2 seconds in the center of the screen.

Problems and Solutions: Why Screen Sharing Doesn't Work

If you followed the instructions but the function is still not activated, the reasons may be as follows:

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi Note models (e.g. Redmi Note 7 with a MIUI 10) the screen split is disabled at the firmware level, in which case only the update to MIUI 12+ or use of third-party applications.

If none of the methods worked, try resetting the system settings:

1. Go to Settings → System → Resetting settings.
2. Select Reset all settings (without deleting data).
3. After restarting, check the function.

Warning: Resetting will return all personal settings (wallpaper, sounds, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections) to factory settings.

Third-party split-screen applications

If the standard methods don't work, you can use third-party utilities, which are suitable for older Redmi Note models or custom firmware.

• 📱 Split Screen Launcher – creates shortcuts for fast application launch in multi-window.
• 🔧 Multi Window Mode – Emulates split mode even on unsupported devices.
• 🖥️ Floating Apps – allows you to open applications in floating windows (alternative to splitting).

To install such an application:

1. Download it from Google Play (like Split Screen Launcher).
2. Grant permission to Overlay over other applications in Settings → Apps → Special Access.
3. Follow the instructions in the application to configure the multi-window.

⚠️ Note: Third-party utilities may conflict with system processes MIUI, Especially if you have a beta version of the firmware installed.

Advantages of third-party solutions:

• 🔹 They work on outdated versions. MIUI.
• 🔹 Support more apps (including limited-mode games).
• 🔹 Allows you to adjust the size and transparency of windows.

Disadvantages:

• 🔸 They may consume additional battery resources.
• 🔸 Some functions are paid.
• 🔸 Risk of unstable work (hangs, departures).

Comparison with other brands: how the competition is

Not only is Xiaomi a split screen feature, but let’s look at how it’s implemented by other manufacturers:

Xiaomi stands out for its flexibility of settings, especially in MIUI 14, where floating windows are supported (e.g., you can open a YouTube mini window over another app), but Samsung’s implementation is more stable, and Huawei offers a unique desktop mode.

If you use multi-windows frequently, look for the flagship Redmi Note 12 Pro+ or POCO F5 models – they support advanced separation features, including working with three apps at once (in horizontal orientation).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions