Maximizing Multitasking on Android: More Than Two Windows

While Android 7 Nougat primarily relies on split-screen mode for multitasking, allowing for the simultaneous use of two apps, there are several alternatives and workarounds that enable users to manage more than two windows efficiently. This article explores these methods, providing tips and tricks to boost your productivity on the go.

Picture-in-Picture (PiP) Mode

What it is: Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode is a feature that enables certain apps such as video players and video conferencing applications to operate in a small window that hovers over other on-screen activities.

How to use it: To utilize PiP mode, start playing a video or initiating a call. Then press the home button. The app will minimize to a small window that you can move around the screen. This feature is particularly useful for watching videos while simultaneously engaging with other apps without interrupting your workflow.

Floating Apps

What it is: Some third-party applications provide an innovative floating app feature where additional windows can be launched without taking up the entire screen space.

How to use it: Look for apps like Floating, Launcher Override, or similar ones available on the Google Play Store. After installing, you can open multiple floating windows simultaneously, allowing for a more efficient multitasking experience. Such apps are ideal for quick access to relevant information without constantly switching between different screens or apps.

Mulit-Window Apps

What it is: Multi-window apps are designed to support the concurrent use of multiple instances of the same app or even different apps in separate windows. This feature ensures that each app operates independently, ensuring that one app does not affect the functionality of the other.

How to use it: Check if the apps you frequently use support multi-window functionality. Open these apps in split-screen mode, and then use PiP or floating windows alongside them for an enhanced multitasking environment. For instance, you can have a word processor window next to a browser window, allowing you to write notes and research simultaneously.

Task Switcher

What it is: The task switcher allows you to quickly switch between apps using the recent apps button. This feature is particularly useful for switching between multiple windows without manually closing and reopening apps.

How to use it: To activate the task switcher, tap the recent apps button, which is usually a square or a button with two overlapping rectangles. From there, you can cycle through your open apps and select any of them to switch quickly. This seamless transition ensures that no data or content gets lost during your shift between apps.

Third-Party Launchers

What it is: Custom launchers offer enhanced multitasking features, including advanced app management tools and a more integrated multitasking experience.

How to use it: Explore launchers such as Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, or similar third-party alternatives. These launchers often provide features like grid launchers, additional quick launch options, and advanced customization tools. They can significantly improve your multitasking experience on Android, allowing you to manage multiple windows and apps more efficiently.

Conclusion

While Android 7 Nougat does not natively support more than two windows in the same way that later versions do, leveraging a combination of PiP, floating apps, and third-party solutions can help you achieve a more productive multitasking experience. For those frequently needing to use multiple apps simultaneously, it is recommended to update to a newer version of Android as later versions have improved multitasking capabilities. With these techniques, you can work more efficiently and effectively on your Android device.