iOS 12 iPad Split View Multitasking Ratios

Split View in iOS 12 allows users to run two active applications simultaneously side by side on compatible iPad models. Depending on the screen size of the device and its orientation, the operating system supports specific screen-division proportions: an equal 50:50 split, and an unequal one-third to two-thirds split (roughly 33:67 or 66:33). This guide outlines the exact multitasking ratios supported on iOS 12 and how device dimensions impact their availability.

Supported Split View Ratios

iOS 12 provides two primary screen configurations when running apps side by side:

  • 50:50 Split (Equal Halves): The screen is divided right down the middle, giving both applications an equal amount of horizontal real estate.
  • 66:33 / 33:67 Split (One-Third and Two-Thirds): The divider is positioned to give one application priority with approximately two-thirds of the display width, while the secondary application occupies the remaining one-third in a compact view similar to an iPhone screen layout.

Users adjust between these configurations by dragging the vertical divider bar located between the two active applications.

Display Orientation and Model Differences

The availability of Split View configurations depends directly on the iPad's screen dimensions and orientation:

Landscape Orientation

  • Standard iPads (iPad mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad 5th/6th generation, iPad Pro 9.7", 10.5", and 11"): Support both the 50:50 and 66:33 / 33:67 ratios.
  • 12.9-inch iPad Pro: Supports both the 50:50 and 66:33 / 33:67 ratios. Because of the larger canvas, both apps in a 50:50 split run in full regular-size application layouts rather than compact versions.

Portrait Orientation

  • Standard iPads: Split View is not supported in portrait orientation on 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, or 11-inch models. In portrait mode, secondary apps can only be accessed using Slide Over (a floating window over the primary app).
  • 12.9-inch iPad Pro: Uniquely supports Split View in portrait orientation. Due to the vertical constraint, it does not support an equal 50:50 division; it only supports an unequal split where one app retains the majority of the display (roughly 75%) and the other takes a compact column (roughly 25%).

Compatible Hardware

To use Split View on iOS 12, hardware support is required. The feature functions on:

  • iPad Air 2 and later
  • iPad mini 4
  • iPad (5th and 6th generation)
  • iPad Pro (all models: 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, 11-inch, and 12.9-inch)

Older models running iOS 12, such as the original iPad Air and iPad mini 2 or 3, only support Slide Over and do not support Split View ratios.