Typing on an iPad can sometimes feel awkward, especially if you’re holding it with both hands. The split keyboard iPad feature is here to help, making it much easier to type with your thumbs.
Whether you’re curious about how to use, fix, or turn off the split keyboard, this guide has you covered.
Ready to type smarter and faster? Read on to discover everything you need to know about the split keyboard on your iPad!
What Is the Split Keyboard on iPad?
The split keyboard on iPad is a special feature that lets you separate the on-screen keyboard into two halves.
Each half sits on either side of the screen, making it easier to type with your thumbs while holding the iPad. This is different from the floating keyboard, which is a small keyboard you can move anywhere on the screen.
The split keyboard is made for comfort. If you hold your iPad in landscape mode, you can grip both sides and type like you would on a big phone.
Some people turn it on by accident and wonder why their iPad keyboard is split in half. Don’t worry, it's easy to fix or use, depending on what you want.
💡 Note: As of 2025, the split keyboard feature is only available on older iPads. If you have an iPad Pro or a standard iPad 10th generation or newer, this feature is not available. All iPads do support the floating keyboard, which is a separate feature.
Which iPads Support the Split Keyboard?
- Supported Models: The split keyboard is available on most older iPads, including iPad Air models before the M1 version, iPad mini (up to 6th generation), and standard iPads up to the 9th generation.
- Not Supported: The split keyboard is not available on any iPad Pro models or on the iPad 10th generation and newer. If you have one of these, you will only see the full-size or floating keyboard options.
- iPadOS Versions: The split keyboard works on supported hardware running iPadOS 15, 16, and 17. On newer iPads, the feature is not available, regardless of the iPadOS version.
📌If you’re looking for ways to boost your iPad’s efficiency, check out these iPadOS 18 tips and tricks.
How to Split the Keyboard on iPad
Turning on the split keyboard is simple. Here’s how you do it:
- Open Any App with Text Input: Go to Notes, Messages, or Safari—anywhere you can type.
- Bring Up the Keyboard: Tap in the text field to make the keyboard appear.
- Split the Keyboard:Place two fingers on the keyboard and pull them apart (spread them). Or, tap and hold the keyboard button (bottom right corner), then choose “Split.”
- Move the Keyboard: Tap and hold the keyboard button, then drag the keyboard up or down the screen to a comfortable spot.
Now your keyboard is split in half, with each side hugging the edge of the screen for easy thumb typing.
How to Merge or Dock the Split Keyboard Back
If you want your keyboard back to normal, it’s just as easy:
- Tap and Hold the Keyboard Button: It’s on the bottom right of the keyboard.
- Choose “Merge” or “Dock and Merge”: “Merge” puts the keyboard back together. “Dock and Merge” puts it back together and moves it to the bottom of the screen.
If you don’t see these options, your iPad model might not support the split keyboard, or you’re using the floating keyboard instead.
Why Is My iPad Keyboard Split in Half?
Sometimes, the iPad keyboard splits by accident. Here’s why:
- You might have swiped or pinched the keyboard without meaning to.
- Someone else could have changed the setting.
- You’re using an older iPad model that still supports the split keyboard.
If this happens, don’t worry. You can easily merge the keyboard back together using the steps above.
How to Turn Off the Split Keyboard on iPad
If you never want to see the split keyboard again, you can turn off the feature:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General, then Keyboard.
- Find “Split Keyboard” and turn it off.
Now, your keyboard will always appear as a single piece at the bottom of your screen.
How to Fix Split Keyboard Issues on iPad
Sometimes the split keyboard can get stuck, disappear, or not work right. Here’s how to fix it:
- Keyboard Stuck in Split Mode: Hold down the keyboard button and select “Merge.”
- Split Keyboard Not Working: Make sure your iPad model supports it and that the feature is turned on in Settings > General > Keyboard.
- Keyboard Disappears: Tap into a text field to bring it back. If it still doesn’t show, restart your iPad.
If you keep having trouble, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Keyboard Dictionary. This will reset any custom keyboard settings and might fix stubborn problems.
How to Make the iPad Keyboard Bigger or Smaller
The iPad keyboard can be split, docked, merged, or even made small and floating. Here’s how to change its size:
- To Make It Bigger: Merge the keyboard back together.
- To Make It Smaller: Pinch in with two fingers on the keyboard to turn it into a floating keyboard. You can move this mini keyboard anywhere on your screen.
- To Return to Full Size: Use two fingers to spread out the floating keyboard, and it will go back to normal.
If you want to adjust even more, check out the accessibility settings under Settings > Accessibility > Keyboards to make typing more comfortable.
Split Keyboard Tips and Tricks for iPad Users
Want to type faster or make your iPad keyboard work better for you? Try these tips:
- Thumb Typing: Hold your iPad in both hands and use your thumbs. It feels like texting on a big phone.
- Move the Keyboard: You can drag the split keyboard up or down the screen for the best angle.
- Quick Access to Numbers: Use the swipe-down gesture on letter keys to type numbers or symbols without switching modes.
- Third-Party Keyboards: Some third-party apps offer split keyboard features, even on iPads that don’t support the built-in split keyboard.
📌Looking to use your iPad for work or school? See if the iPad Pro can really replace your laptop.
Should You Use the Split Keyboard on iPad?
The split keyboard is perfect for thumb typers and people who hold their iPad with both hands. It’s great for quick messages, notes, and emails when you don’t have a physical keyboard nearby.
Pros:
- More comfortable for thumb typing
- Easier to use when holding the iPad
- Can move it up and down the screen
Cons:
- Not supported on newer iPads
- Some people find it confusing if turned on by accident
- Takes up more screen space than the floating keyboard
If you type a lot or want a laptop feel, you might prefer using a physical keyboard or a keyboard case.
📌Want to see how an iPad stacks up against a laptop? Browse our in-depth comparison of iPad Pro vs. MacBook Pro.
Conclusion
Now you know how to turn on, turn off, and fix the split keyboard iPad feature, plus some handy tips for typing faster and more comfortably.
Whether you prefer thumb typing or want your keyboard back to normal, you have all the tools you need.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Split Keyboard iPad
Can you split the keyboard on iPad Pro?
No, iPad Pro models do not support the split keyboard feature. This includes all versions of iPad Pro, even with the latest iPadOS. You can still use the floating keyboard, which is a small, movable version of the keyboard.
Why can’t I split my keyboard on my iPad?
If you can’t split your keyboard, your iPad may be a newer model, like the iPad Pro or iPad 10th generation and later, which do not support this feature. The split keyboard option may also be turned off in settings. Check under Settings > General > Keyboard to see if the split keyboard is enabled. Only certain older iPad models offer this feature, even with the latest iPadOS.
Is split keyboard available on all iPad apps?
The split keyboard works in most native apps like Notes, Mail, and Messages, where you can type text. However, some third-party apps might not support the split keyboard or could have their own custom keyboards. If you don’t see the split option in a particular app, try switching to a different app to check if it appears. Usually, the feature is most reliable in Apple’s built-in apps.
How do I get rid of the split keyboard on my iPad?
To get rid of the split keyboard, hold down the keyboard button in the bottom right corner and select “Merge” or “Dock and Merge.” This will bring the keyboard back together as one piece at the bottom of your screen. If the split keyboard keeps appearing by accident, you can turn off the feature in settings. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard and switch off “Split Keyboard.”
How do I get the keyboard back to normal on my iPad?
You can get the keyboard back to normal by tapping and holding the keyboard button and then choosing “Merge.” This will combine the two halves into a regular, full-width keyboard. If you want it docked at the bottom, select “Dock and Merge.” Your keyboard should now look and work just like before.
How do I merge split keyboards on iPad?
To merge the split keyboard, tap and hold the keyboard button in the bottom right corner and select “Merge.” This will join the two halves into one complete keyboard. If you also want to move it to the bottom of the screen, use “Dock and Merge.” The keyboard will return to its usual position and size.
How do you turn off the split keyboard?
You can turn off the split keyboard by going to Settings > General > Keyboard and toggling off the “Split Keyboard” option. This prevents the keyboard from splitting in the future, even if you use the gestures. After turning it off, the keyboard will always appear as a single piece. This is helpful if you don’t want to accidentally activate the split keyboard again.
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