How to Open 2 Apps on a Single Android Screen on Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: The Complete Guide

The split screen (or multi-window) feature on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 allows you to work with two apps simultaneously, significantly improving productivity. For example, you can browse the web in your browser while simultaneously texting in the messenger, or compare prices in online stores without switching between tabs. However, not all users know how to activate this mode correctly — especially on devices with a customized MIUI shell, where standard Android methods may not work.

In this article, we’ll go into detail about all the ways to enable multi-window on the Redmi Note 7, including hidden settings, gestures, and alternative methods for apps that don’t support split default mode. You will also learn how to adjust the size of windows, fix typical errors (for example, when one of the applications does not open), and optimize the system for smooth multitasking. MIUI 10–14, as the algorithm of actions may differ depending on the firmware version.

Does the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 support split screen?

Yes, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 officially supports split screen (Split Screen), but with some nuances. This feature is built into the MIUI shell, but its implementation depends on the firmware version and regional settings. For example, on global versions of MIUI (for example, MIUI Global 12.5), multi-window can be hidden in the depths of the menu, while on Chinese firmware (MIUI China), access to it is simplified.

It is important to note that not all apps are split mode compatible. For example, games, some banking programs or applications with protected content (such as Netflix or Disney+) may block multi-window work for security or performance reasons. Before setting up, check the list of supported applications in the system settings.

• ✅ Supported: Chrome, WhatsApp, Telegram, Google Maps, YouTube (not for all videos), Gallery, Notes.
• ❌ Not supported: majority 3D-Games, SberBank Online, Tinkoff, some video players with DRM-protection.
• ⚠️ Limited: Instagram (only viewing the feed, no stories), VK (Some functions may not work).

If your app doesn’t open in split mode, try updating to the latest version or use alternative methods described in the “Methods for Unsupported Apps” section.

The standard way to turn on the multi-window on the Redmi Note 7

The easiest way to activate a split screen is through the recent app bar. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Open the first application you want to use in the multi-window.
2. Click on the “Recent Apps” button** (the square icon at the bottom of the screen or swipe up with a 1 second delay).
3. In the list of open applications, find the card of the desired application and press it with your finger for 1-2 seconds.
4. In the menu that appears, select Split Screen (or Split Screen in English firmware).
5. After that, the screen will split into two parts, the bottom will remain the selected application, and the top will open the panel of recent applications to select the second.
6. Tap the second app to run it at the top of the screen.

If the split screen does not appear when you hold the card, then the function is disabled in the system settings. To enable it, go to Settings → Special features → Split screen and activate the slider. On some versions of MIUI, this path may differ — more in the next section.

Where does the split screen on MIUI turn on in the settings?

The path to multi-window settings may vary from one MIUI version to another, and the following is a table with the current paths for the Redmi Note 7:

If your MIUI version doesn’t have these points, try searching by settings (the magnifier icon in the upper right corner). Enter split screen or split screen in English. Also check if the item in Settings is hidden → More → Lab (on Chinese firmware).

⚠️ Note: Some firmware for Redmi Note 7 may have the multi-window feature blocked by the manufacturer.If you don't find it in the settings, try updating it MIUI Up to the latest stable version or install an alternative solution.

Gestures for quick split screen launch

In MIUI 12 and later, you can set up a gesture to activate the multiwindow, which makes it faster and more convenient to start the function.

1. Go to Settings → Gesture Management → Button gestures (or Settings → Additional → Gestures on older versions).
2. Find the split screen and select it.
3. Assign a gesture, such as: Double-press the button Recent apps swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen with a delay, hold the button Home (if you use the navigation bar).

Save the settings and test the gesture.

If gestures don’t work, make sure that conflicting features are turned off in the settings, such as Full-screen gestures or Navigating gestures from third-party apps (such as Nova Launcher or Fluid NG).

Size setting of windows and multi-window management

Once you start the split screen, you can adjust the window size by dragging the dividing bar up or down, but there are additional settings in MIUI:

• 🔄 Exchange seats: Tap the dividing strip twice to swap apps.
• 🗑️ Close one window: Drag the dividing strip to the top or bottom edge of the screen.
• 📱 Transition to full screen mode: Touch the icons «□» top-corner.
• 🔒 Size fixation: On some versions MIUI You can block the proportions of windows, holding the separation strip for 2 seconds.

If the dividing bar has disappeared or does not respond to touch, restart the multi-window or restart the device, and check if the One-handed mode is activated, which can conflict with split screen.

💡

To quickly copy text from one window to another, highlight it, then drag it to a nearby app. MIUI 13+ supports a cross-window clipboard.

Alternative Ways for Unsupported Applications

If the app doesn’t open in standard split mode, try one of these methods:

1. Free Window (Floating Window)

Some versions of MIUI support floating windows that can be superimposed over other applications to activate:

1. Open Settings → Special Options → Free window.
2. Turn on the function and add the desired applications to the whitelist.
3. Open the app, then swipe down from the top edge of the screen to roll it into a floating window.

2. Launcher applications with multi-window support

Third-party launchers like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher often have advanced multitasking features. For example, Nova Launcher can set up a gesture to launch a split screen even for incompatible applications.

3. Use of ADB (for advanced users)

If you're willing to work with ADB, you can force multi-window support for any application.

adb shell settings put global force_resizeable_activities 1

Once you've done this, restart your device. Now most applications will support split mode, but there may be interface glitch.

⚠️ Attention: Teams ADB This may disrupt the stability of the system. Before using them, back up your data through Settings. → Additionally. → Backup and reset.

Solving Typical Multi-Window Problems

If the split screen is not working or is not working properly, check the following points:

If problems persist, try resetting the interface: go to Settings → About Phone, click on MIUI Version five times, then select Launcher Settings Reset in the menu that appears. This will not delete your data, but return the standard display options.

Optimizing Performance for a Smooth Multi-Window

Split screen requires more resources, so on the Redmi Note 7 (especially with 3 GB of RAM) there may be slowdowns.

• 🚀 Turn off animation: Go to Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (5 times), then in the Developer → Scale of window/transition animation and set up No animation.
• 🧹 Clear the cache: In Settings → Warehouse → Cleaning Up Remove Unnecessary Files.
• 🔋 Activate Performance Mode: In Settings → Battery → Performance mode select High Performance mode.
• 📱 Close the background processes: Use Settings → Annexes → Cleanup RAM pre-window.

It is also recommended to turn off Auto Brightness and set a fixed screen backlight level (e.g. 70%), as the light sensor may conflict with split mode.

💡

On the Redmi Note 7 with 3 GB of RAM, it is not recommended to open heavy apps (e.g. Chrome + Instagram) at the same time in the multi-window – this can lead to the forced closure of one of them.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the Redmi Note 7 multi-window