How to Optimize Foldable Android Phones for Multitasking
Foldable phones are no longer just futuristic tech—they're rapidly becoming mainstream devices, perfect for productivity and multitasking. With larger screen real estate and newer Android UI features (especially in Android 15), you can do much more using features like split-screen, floating windows, app continuity, and flex mode. Here’s how to get the most out of your foldable phone and turn it into a mobile productivity powerhouse.
1. Why Foldables Are Perfect for Multitasking
Unlike standard smartphones, foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and Google Pixel Fold open up like a mini tablet. This unique form factor allows true side-by-side multitasking, full-sized keyboard use, and app continuity between cover and main display. With Android 15 refining large-screen UI responsiveness, multitasking is smoother and more intuitive than ever.
2. Using Split-Screen Mode Efficiently
Split-screen lets you run two apps side by side—great for reading emails while taking notes, browsing while texting, or watching videos while scrolling social media.
How to use split-screen:
- Open the first app you want to use.
- Swipe up and hold to open Recent Apps or tap the multitasking button.
- Tap the app icon above and choose “Open in split-screen view”.
- Select the second app to open underneath or beside it.
You can resize the width or height by dragging the divider between the apps. Android 15 ensures better app optimization when resizing, making this feature more fluid on foldables.
3. Floating Windows (Pop-up View)
Want to open a calculator or chat bubble while watching a video? Use floating/windowed apps (also known as pop-up view) without leaving the current screen.
To enable floating view:
- Go to Settings > Advanced Features > Labs (on Samsung) or use multitasking gestures.
- Open the app, then drag it to the center of the screen or tap “Open in pop-up view”.
Move and resize the floating window as needed.
4. Leveraging Flex Mode for Hands-Free Usability
Flex mode is a unique feature on foldables that allows you to use the phone while it’s partially folded. When opened at an angle, your screen automatically splits UI elements intelligently—video on top, controls at the bottom.
Things you can do in Flex mode:
- Video call hands-free using Google Meet or Zoom
- Take stabilized photos using Camera + Flex
- Watch YouTube while navigating controls below
5. App Continuity Across Fold and Unfold
App Continuity means switching between cover and inner displays without interruption. Open an app on the front screen, unfold the phone, and it resumes exactly where you left off in full-screen without reloading.
Make sure this is enabled:
- Go to Settings > Display > Continue apps on cover screen
- Select apps you want to seamlessly switch between folded and unfolded mode
This makes transitioning between phone and tablet modes incredibly efficient for productivity.
6. Productivity Tips for Power Users
If you’re serious about multitasking on a foldable phone, here are some extra tips:
- Use Samsung DeX or desktop-mode alternatives with external displays
- Pin favorite apps to the taskbar (available in Android 15 foldables)
- Use drag-and-drop between split apps (e.g., move images from gallery to email)
- Pair apps (App Groups) to launch your favorite multitasking layout in one tap
Google’s Pixel Fold also introduces system-wide gestures for better window control, making multitasking even faster.
7. Final Thoughts
Foldable phones are revolutionizing the way we work and play on the go. With features like split-screen, floating windows, and Flex mode now deeply optimized in Android 15, these phones offer a PC-like workflow in your pocket. Explore these features today—and transform your mobile experience into something powerful and productive.
