One of the important advances that the new Windows 8 operating system incorporates is the ability to use two applications at the same time on the computer screen. This feature sets the apps automatically on each side of the screen and allows us to manually change the width we want for each of the tools. Without a doubt, it is a very interesting option for users who are used to using several applications at the same time. We tell you how to handle this function through the latest version of the Windows 8.1 Update system .
Although not much hype has been given to this function, one of the newest features that we can enjoy in Windows 8 is the option to use two applications on split screen. There are several ways to use this function. The first way is to move the mouse to the upper left corner. When the list of open applications appears, we drag the app that we want to use with the left mouse button pressed to one of the two sides of the screen. We can see how the chosen app is placed on a split screen next to the application that is open.
If we are working outside the desktop, we can drag the application from the upper area (with the mouse button pressed) to one of the sides. In this case, there will be an empty box on the opposite side. Just click on this box and then open another application so that it is located next to the other application. This way of setting the split screen is configured in a similar way through a touch screen. Only in this case, instead of waiting for the list of open applications to appear, you have to drag your finger from the upper left corner downwards. Windows 8.1 Updateit also incorporates a new way to use the split screen. If we are off the desktop and we bring the mouse to the top, a small upper strip appears. On the left side there is a small icon that, when clicking on it, offers two options called “Divide Left” or “Divide Right” .
Once we have opened the two applications, we can drag the mouse on the central bar that separates the two applications to mark the size of each of the apps. What has been lost in Windows 8.1 Update is the option to use one of the two tools in a reduced side strip. Now the two apps have to have a minimum size of around 30% of the screen . If we drag the strip further, we will see how a single application is shown again in the panel. By the way, if we open an application again when we already have two split-screen applications, the third will appear floating between the two (as can be seen in the image) and we will have to choose the application to replace.
In addition to the use of the mouse and touch movements, we can use the keyboard to move between the two applications without having to press the mouse. To do this, just press the Windows key + the period key . In general, it is a very interesting function to take advantage of the capabilities of Windows 8 , especially on computers with a larger screen size.