Android 16, while still a few months away from public release, is already generating considerable excitement, especially for tablet users. Recent reports from Android Authority suggest the update will bring a significant overhaul to split-screen functionality, inspired by OnePlus’s Open Canvas feature. This enhancement will allow users to run three apps concurrently, maximizing productivity on larger screens.
The new split-screen mode, discovered in Android 16 Developer Preview 2 (DP2), designates 90% of the display to two primary apps, with the third occupying the remaining 10%. Accessing the third app is seamless; a simple tap automatically adjusts the screen layout. Users can also utilize drag-and-drop from the taskbar or a four-finger pinch gesture for effortless app navigation.
This feature is expected to be compatible with both tablets and foldable phones, such as the Google Pixel Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. It promises a simplified user experience and potentially integrates with Android’s app pairs feature for state saving, further streamlining multitasking.
Open Canvas, the inspiration behind this update, allows for flexible app arrangement and resizing on larger displays. Its ability to support three apps side-by-side makes it ideal for tablets and foldable devices, mirroring the anticipated functionality in Android 16. This enhanced multitasking capability addresses the need for efficient workflow management on larger screens.
Beyond split-screen enhancements, Android 16 also introduces a revamped Privacy Dashboard. Users can now review a week’s worth of permission access data, providing a more comprehensive overview of app activity and enhancing privacy control.
Further improvements include an enhanced Audio Sharing feature, enabling simultaneous audio output to multiple Bluetooth devices. Additionally, a Notification Cooldown option allows users to gradually reduce notification volume from specific apps over time, minimizing distractions.
Android 16 is slated for release to device manufacturers later this year, promising a substantial upgrade to the Android experience. The enhanced split-screen mode, coupled with privacy and audio improvements, positions Android 16 as a significant step forward in mobile productivity and user control.
