Google's Chrome for iOS just got a neat update that will come particularly in handy for iPad users, as it brings the much-touted Split View mode.
The latest iPads running iOS 9 finally allow for multitasking, something users have long been requesting. It's worth pointing out, however, that not all iPads support this feature. The iPad Air 2, the iPad Mini 4 and the soon-to-be-released iPad Pro are the only ones that support Split View for multitasking.
Consequently, Google's updated Chrome web browser for iOS 9 supports multitasking, but only for the eligible iPad models mentioned above. With the new Chrome version 46.0.2490.73, iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 4 and iPad Pro users will be able to enjoy Split View to run the Chrome browser next to other apps. Apple's own Safari browser doesn't allow users to have two browser tabs side-by-side, but dual browsing is now possible by running Chrome and Safari at the same time with Split View.
The latest update to Chrome for iPad also brings the Slide Over feature, as well as Picture in Picture. Slide Over allows users to reference Chrome above other apps, while Picture in Picture allows them to minimize the videos they're playing in Chrome so they can view other apps as well, including the Split View mode. The update also brings "improved handling" for right-to-left (RTL) languages.
Slide Over will also prove beneficial for owners of older iPad models that don't support Split View, as it will allow them to view a smaller version of Chrome over other apps.
Moreover, Google also notes that it's finally adding Chrome's Autofill to the iOS version, which should prove particularly useful for online shopping.
"We're also working to make it easier to make purchases on the go. We're shopping more often than ever on our phones and tablets, but it can be a pain to re-enter credit card information every time you buy something," Google explains on its official Chrome blog. "That's why we're bringing Chrome's Autofill from desktop and Android to iOS. No matter what device you use, you can shop for what you need easily and securely."
The latest version of Chrome for iOS is now available for download in Apple's App Store and is compatible with iPhones, iPads and iPods touch running iOS 7 or later.
