One of the most requested features for Apple’s iPads is split-screen multitasking, which would allow users to split the iPad’s screen in landscape orientation, running two different apps simultaneously in each section of the screen. This feature has been long rumored but never officially acknowledged by Apple. However, a recent tweet from New York Times reporter Brian Chen seems to suggest that it is finally on its way.
Split-screen multitasking is already a key selling point for Microsoft’s Surface tablets, so if Apple introduces it to the iPad, it will challenge Microsoft to find new ways to differentiate its products from the competition. Although nothing has been confirmed, it’s expected that split-screen multitasking will be part of iOS 8 for the iPad Air. It’s unlikely to be available on older iPad models, at least not right away. Brian Chen’s tweet also suggests that this feature won’t be ready for the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which is scheduled for next week, so it remains unclear when it will be officially unveiled.