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How to View Two PDFs Side by Side on iOS and Android
Question details
Users want to know how to open and view two different PDF documents simultaneously in a split-screen mode on mobile devices.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- iOS and Android
- Scenario
- Comparing or referencing two different PDF documents at the same time on a mobile device or tablet.
- Observed behavior
- Users are seeking built-in split-screen features in mobile PDF readers to display two files concurrently, especially on older hardware like iPad mini 1 or Android 6.
Verify that your mobile device's operating system supports native split-screen functionality, as side-by-side viewing often relies on built-in OS multitasking features.
Use Native Split-Screen Multitasking on iOS and Android
Leverage your device's built-in multitasking features to open two instances of a PDF viewer or two different PDF apps side by side.
Most modern iOS (iPadOS) and Android devices include native split-screen capabilities. Instead of relying solely on the PDF application's internal features, you can use the operating system to force two apps to share the screen.
Launch your primary PDF reader application and open the first document you wish to view.
On iPadOS, tap the three-dot Multitasking button at the top of the screen and select 'Split View'. On Android, open your recent apps menu, long-press the PDF app icon, and tap 'Split screen'.
Choose a second PDF reader app (or a new instance of the same app, if supported by your OS) from your app drawer or home screen, and open the second PDF document.
Submit a Feature Request to the App Developer
If your preferred PDF reader lacks built-in multi-document viewing, request the feature directly from the developers.
Manage Multiple PDFs Effortlessly with WPS Office
WPS Office provides an excellent mobile PDF reading experience, featuring multi-tab support and seamless integration with iOS and Android native split-screen modes to help you compare documents on the go.
- 1. Install the Application: Download and install the WPS Office app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your first PDF file. You can then open additional PDFs which will appear in separate tabs.
- 3. Utilize Split-Screen: Activate your device's native split-screen feature and open a second document window to compare both PDFs side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I view two PDFs side by side on older devices like the iPad mini 1?
Native split-screen functionality requires newer operating systems (such as iOS 9 or later for Split View). On extremely old devices like the iPad mini 1, you cannot use native split-screen and must rely on specialized third-party apps that have built-in dual-pane viewers.
Does Acrobat Reader support multi-tab viewing on mobile?
Acrobat Reader's multi-document viewing capabilities vary by platform and updates. Generally, mobile versions focus on single-document viewing, requiring you to use OS-level split-screen features to view two files concurrently.
How do I trigger split-screen on an Android phone?
To trigger split-screen on Android, swipe up to open the Recent Apps menu, tap the app icon at the top of your PDF reader's preview card, select 'Split top' or 'Split screen', and then tap a second app to occupy the bottom half of your screen.
