Google is rolling out Gemini’s split-screen view feature to more Android phones beyond tablets and foldables.
In recent beta builds (Google App version 16.35.63.sa.arm64 beta), users with Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 Pro have spotted that they can invoke Gemini overlay within an app and drag the prompt bar upward to enter a split-screen view — the screen splits so your current app shares space with Gemini.
How It Works
- When the Gemini assistant overlay appears (over any app), you drag the bottom bar (prompt bar) up to trigger split-screen mode. On smaller, standard phones this stacks Gemini and the active app one above the other. On larger or foldable devices, you may drag sideways for a side-by-side layout.
- Devices must be on the beta version of the Google app. Not all phones are getting it yet. For example, some users report that Pixel 10 Pro XL doesn’t yet support it.
Why It Matters
- This is a productivity enhancement: it lets users keep Gemini handy alongside other apps without constantly switching back and forth.
- Expanding to standard “candybar” phones (non-foldable, traditional screen phones) means more users will benefit—not just those with premium/foldable devices.
Limitations & What’s Being Tested
- Rollout is still limited: only beta testers and select devices so far.
- Some devices with stable versions of the Google app may not yet show the feature. On those, dragging the Gemini bar still brings up the full-screen overlay.
- Compatibility may vary depending on phone model, screen layout, and Android version. OEM skins may affect behavior.
What to Watch Next
- Wider rollout: when this feature is released to stable channel and more non-Pixel / non-beta devices.
- User feedback: How well the split-screen mode works in real world multitasking (lag, layout issues, usability).
- Performance: Whether Gemini’s overlay + split-screen causes any slowdowns or usability issues on less powerful Android phones.
- Additional enhancements: More gestures (left/right splits), resizable panes, or more seamless way to manage contexts.
Conclusion
Gemini’s split-screen view expanding to more Android phones is a smart move by Google to make its assistant more usable in everyday multitasking scenarios. For users, it offers a more seamless way to use Gemini alongside other apps. While still in beta and limited rollout, it has good potential to improve productivity and reduce friction in switching between assistant and main tasks.
