How to Use Insignia TV Split Screen: Complete Step-by-Step Guide [2026]

Your Insignia TV can do something pretty remarkable that many owners never discover: display two completely separate content sources at the same time. Whether you want to catch two playoff games simultaneously, follow a gaming tutorial while playing, or keep an eye on the news while binge-watching your favorite show, the split screen feature transforms how you use your television.

Split screen, also known as multi-view or dual-view, divides your Insignia TV's display into two separate viewing areas. Each section operates independently, pulling from different input sources - HDMI ports, streaming apps, over-the-air antenna, or even screen mirroring from your mobile devices. The result is genuine multitasking without the need for a second television.

Quick Answer: How to Enable Split Screen on Insignia TV

1. Press the Home button on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings → Display & Sounds

3. Select Split Screen or Multi-View

4. Choose Enable Split Screen

5. Select your two input sources

Estimated time: 2-3 minutes

Most Insignia Fire TV models manufactured from 2020 onwards include this functionality, though the feature's availability and capabilities vary by series. The F50 Series and QF Series offer the most robust split screen implementation, while the F30 Series provides basic multi-view support. If you're curious about alternative display modes, Insignia TV picture in picture offers another approach where secondary content appears as a smaller overlay rather than a side-by-side split.

This guide covers everything from verifying your model's compatibility to mastering advanced customization and troubleshooting persistent issues. If you haven't completed initial configuration on your television, you may want to reference our Insignia TV setup guide before proceeding with split screen activation.

Which Insignia TV Models Support Split Screen in 2026?

Before diving into setup procedures, let's confirm your television actually supports this feature. One of the most common frustrations I've seen in forums and support threads comes from users attempting to enable a feature their specific model simply doesn't have.

Insignia organizes its television lineup into distinct series, each targeting different price points and feature sets. The split screen capability ties directly to processing power and the Fire TV operating system version - budget models lack the hardware muscle to render two high-quality video streams simultaneously.

Model Compatibility by Series

The pattern is straightforward: models with "F" in the product name followed by "30" or higher generally support split screen. The QF Series represents Insignia's 2025-2026 flagship lineup and includes every multi-view feature available.

How to Find Your Model Number

Your model number reveals everything about your TV's capabilities. To find Insignia TV model number, check these locations:

Physical Label Method: Look at the back of your television near the input ports. You'll find a white or silver sticker with the model number starting with "NS-" (example: NS-55F501NA25).

Settings Menu Method:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings → Device & Software → About

3. Your model number appears alongside the software version

Understanding the Format: The model number NS-55F501NA25 breaks down as follows:

• NS = Insignia brand

• 55 = Screen size in inches

• F = Fire TV operating system

• 50 = Series (F50 in this case)

• 1 = Model variant

• NA = Manufacturing region

• 25 = Model year (2025)

Models ending in "24," "25," or "26" represent the most recent releases with updated firmware and expanded feature sets. If your model ends in "20" or later and belongs to the F30, F50, or QF series, split screen support is almost certainly included.

What If Your Compatible Model Doesn't Show Split Screen?

Sometimes the feature exists but isn't visible in menus. This typically indicates outdated firmware. Before assuming your TV lacks the capability, check for system updates:

1. Navigate to Home → Settings → Device & Software → About

2. Select "Check for System Update"

3. Install any available updates

4. Restart your TV and check Display settings again

Firmware updates have historically added features to existing models, so keeping your system current matters beyond just security patches. If issues persist even after updating, our comprehensive Insignia TV troubleshooting guide addresses scenarios where features don't appear as expected.

Split Screen vs Picture-in-Picture (PIP): Key Differences

These terms get tossed around interchangeably in casual conversation, but they represent fundamentally different viewing experiences. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right mode for your specific use case.

Split Screen divides your display into two separate sections - either equal halves (50/50) or proportional divisions (70/30). Both content sources share the screen real estate, and neither dominates the viewing experience. You're essentially looking at two smaller TVs within one frame.

Picture-in-Picture (PIP) maintains one source as the primary, full-screen content while displaying the secondary source in a smaller floating window, typically in one corner. The main content remains dominant; PIP serves for monitoring rather than equal-attention viewing.

Comparison Table

In practice, I've found split screen works best when both content sources genuinely deserve your attention - two simultaneous playoff games during March Madness, or following a step-by-step tutorial while actually performing the task. PIP shines when you want to keep tabs on something without interrupting your primary viewing experience.

If you decide PIP better suits your needs after reading this section, you can use Insignia TV pip feature through a similar settings path, though the configuration options differ slightly.

How to Enable Split Screen on Insignia TV (Step-by-Step)

Three distinct activation methods exist, each suited to different preferences and situations. I'll walk through all three, starting with the most universally applicable approach.

Prerequisites Before Starting

Before attempting activation:

• ✅ Confirm your model supports split screen (see Section 2)

• ✅ Have at least two input sources ready (HDMI devices, streaming apps, or antenna)

• ✅ Ensure your remote has working batteries

• ✅ Know which HDMI port each external device connects to

If your remote isn't responding properly, familiarize yourself with how to use Insignia TV remote navigation basics, as you'll need to access multiple menu levels.

Method 1: Remote Control Activation (Standard)

This approach works on every supported Insignia model and takes roughly 2-3 minutes.

Step 1: Press the Home button on your Insignia remote. The Fire TV home screen appears with the navigation bar at the top.

Step 2: Using the directional ring, navigate right until you reach Settings (gear icon). Press the center select button.

Step 3: In the Settings menu, scroll down to Display & Sounds. Select it.

Step 4: Look for Split Screen, Multi-View, or Dual View (terminology varies by firmware version). Select this option.

Step 5: Choose Enable Split Screen. Your display may flicker briefly as the feature activates.

Step 6: The TV prompts you to select your first input source. Options include:

• HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3 (external devices)

• TV/Antenna (over-the-air channels)

• Installed streaming apps

• Screen mirroring sources

Step 7: Select your first source, then repeat for the second viewing area.

Step 8: Your screen now displays both sources side by side. A brief tutorial overlay may appear explaining basic navigation.

Verification: You should see two distinct content areas with a thin divider line between them. If only one side shows content, verify that both input sources are actively outputting video.

Method 2: Alexa Voice Commands (Fastest)

For Insignia Fire TVs with voice-enabled remotes, this method activates split screen in under 10 seconds.

Step 1: Press and hold the microphone button on your remote. A blue bar appears at the bottom of your screen.

Step 2: While holding the button, clearly say one of these commands:

• "Alexa, open split screen"

• "Alexa, enable multi-view"

• "Alexa, start dual view"

Step 3: Release the button. Alexa confirms the command and activates split screen mode.

Step 4: Follow the on-screen prompts to select your input sources.

Additional Voice Commands:

• "Alexa, swap screens" - switches the position of left and right content

• "Alexa, switch audio to left/right" - changes which source's audio plays

• "Alexa, close split screen" - exits multi-view mode

If voice commands don't trigger any response, verify that Alexa is enabled in your Fire TV settings. Remote pairing issues can also interfere - if your Insignia Fire TV remote not pairing correctly, resolve that before attempting voice activation.

Method 3: Insignia Connect App

The smartphone app provides an alternative when your physical remote isn't available or when you prefer touchscreen navigation.

Step 1: Download the Insignia Connect app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).

Step 2: Ensure your phone and Insignia TV connect to the same WiFi network.

Step 3: Open the app and allow it to discover your TV. Select your television from the device list.

Step 4: Navigate to Settings within the app interface.

Step 5: Select Display or Multi-View settings.

Step 6: Toggle Split Screen to enabled.

Step 7: Use the app interface to select your input sources.

This method takes slightly longer for first-time setup (approximately 5 minutes) but becomes faster once your devices are paired.

Connecting Devices for Split Screen Viewing

Split screen's usefulness depends entirely on having multiple input sources available. Let's explore your options and optimal connection configurations.

Compatible Input Source Types

HDMI Port Configuration Tips

Most Insignia TVs include 3-4 HDMI ports. I recommend establishing a consistent port assignment:

• HDMI 1: Primary gaming console or most-used device

• HDMI 2: Secondary gaming console or cable box

• HDMI 3: Occasional devices (laptop, etc.)

• HDMI ARC: Soundbar or audio receiver (if applicable)

Label each port's device either mentally or with small physical labels. When selecting split screen sources, you'll need to know exactly which device connects to which port.

Labeling Inputs for Easy Selection

Navigate to Settings → TV Inputs and rename each HDMI port with descriptive labels. Instead of "HDMI 1," label it "PlayStation 5" or "Cable Box." This makes split screen source selection far more intuitive.

Setting Up Antenna for OTA Channels

If you want to combine over-the-air broadcast channels with another source, ensure your antenna connects properly. For users who haven't configured broadcast reception, our Insignia TV antenna setup guide walks through channel scanning and signal optimization.

OTA channels work particularly well for split screen sports viewing - catch your local team's game on antenna while streaming an out-of-market matchup on the other side.

Audio Considerations

When running two video sources, audio becomes complicated. By default, only one source's audio plays at a time. You control which source provides audio through the split screen settings menu or by using the audio focus controls.

For viewers wanting enhanced sound quality regardless of source, consider whether to connect external speakers to Insignia TV through optical output or HDMI ARC. External audio systems generally handle split screen audio switching more gracefully than built-in TV speakers.

Using Alexa Voice Commands for Split Screen Control

Voice control transforms split screen management from a multi-step process into instant commands. If you're already using Alexa for other Fire TV functions, the learning curve here is minimal.

Complete Voice Command Reference

Activating Voice Commands

Press and hold the microphone button on your Alexa Voice Remote. Wait for the blue indicator bar at the bottom of the screen, then speak naturally. Release the button after completing your command.

For hands-free operation without pressing any button, you'll need an Echo device paired with your Fire TV or a Fire TV Cube with built-in far-field microphones. Standard Insignia Fire TVs require the button press to initiate voice recognition.

Troubleshooting Voice Commands

If Alexa doesn't respond to split screen commands:

Check 1: Verify Alexa is enabled. Navigate to Settings → Alexa and ensure the feature is turned on.

Check 2: Confirm your remote has a microphone button. Older or basic remotes may lack voice capability.

Check 3: Test basic commands first. Try "Alexa, go home" to verify voice recognition works at all.

Check 4: Update firmware. Some voice commands only work on newer software versions.

If you frequently use voice commands but don't have a voice-capable remote, the Insignia TV remote app for smartphones provides voice functionality through your phone's microphone.

Customizing Your Split Screen Layout (50/50, 70/30)

Default split screen divides evenly, but that's rarely the optimal configuration. Let's explore the customization options that make multi-view actually practical.

Understanding Layout Options

50/50 Split: Equal division down the middle. Both content sources receive identical screen real estate. This works best when:

• Watching two equally important events (two sports games)

• Comparing two products or videos

• Gaming with a friend on separate inputs

70/30 Split: Primary content receives roughly 70% of the screen, secondary content gets 30%. Ideal when:

• Watching a movie while monitoring news or sports scores

• Gaming while following a tutorial video

• Presenting while keeping notes visible

Some models offer additional ratios like 60/40, though 50/50 and 70/30 remain the most common.

Changing Layout Step-by-Step

1. While in split screen mode, press the Menu or Settings button on your remote

2. Select Layout or Screen Ratio

3. Choose between available options (50/50, 70/30, etc.)

4. Confirm your selection

The change applies immediately - no need to restart or re-select your sources.

Audio Focus Controls

Split screen presents an interesting audio challenge: both sources produce sound, but playing both simultaneously creates chaos. Audio focus determines which source you actually hear.

To switch audio focus:

1. Press Menu while in split screen mode

2. Select Audio or Sound Settings

3. Choose Left Screen Audio or Right Screen Audio

Alternatively, use voice commands: "Alexa, switch audio to left screen."

Some users prefer optimizing their overall audio experience before tackling split screen audio management. Adjusting Insignia TV sound settings for bass, treble, and volume leveling first ensures whichever source you're listening to sounds its best.

Swapping Screen Positions

Realized you want the left content on the right and vice versa? No need to reconfigure everything:

1. Press Menu in split screen mode

2. Select Swap Screens or Switch Positions

3. Content instantly reverses position

The voice command "Alexa, swap screens" accomplishes the same thing faster.

Saving Preferred Configurations

Some firmware versions allow saving split screen presets. Check your settings for a "Save Configuration" or "Favorite Layouts" option. This stores your preferred ratio, audio focus, and input selections for one-button recall later.

If visual quality seems compromised in split screen mode, adjusting Insignia TV picture settings can help optimize brightness, contrast, and sharpness for the divided display.

Troubleshooting: Split Screen Not Working on Insignia TV

Even properly supported models occasionally exhibit split screen problems. Here's a systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving the most common issues.

Issue 1: Split Screen Option Not Visible in Menu

Likely Causes:

• Model doesn't support the feature

• Firmware outdated

• Feature disabled by parental controls

Solutions:

First, verify model compatibility using the table in Section 2. If your model should support split screen but the option doesn't appear:

Update firmware: Navigate to Home → Settings → Device & Software → About → Check for System Update. Install any available updates and restart.

Check parental controls: Settings → Parental Controls may restrict certain features. Temporarily disable parental controls to test.

Perform soft reset: Unplug your TV from power for 60 seconds. This clears temporary software glitches that sometimes hide menu options.

For detailed firmware update procedures, our Insignia TV update firmware guide provides step-by-step instructions including manual update methods.

Issue 2: One Side Shows Black Screen

Likely Causes:

• Input source not connected or powered off

• HDMI cable loose or damaged

• Source device in standby mode

Solutions:

Verify both devices are actually powered on and outputting video. HDMI ports require active signals - a connected but sleeping PlayStation won't display anything.

Check cable connections at both ends. HDMI cables can work loose over time, especially in ports used frequently.

Try different HDMI ports. A damaged port affects split screen even when single-source viewing works fine.

Test with a different HDMI cable. Cables degrade, and the additional bandwidth demands of split screen can expose marginal cable problems.

If you're experiencing a completely Insignia TV black screen rather than just one split screen side going dark, the underlying issue likely extends beyond split screen configuration.

Issue 3: Audio Problems in Split Screen Mode

Likely Causes:

• Audio focus set to wrong screen

• External audio system not configured for split screen

• Volume muted on one source

Solutions:

Check audio focus settings: Menu → Audio → Audio Focus. Ensure the correct screen is selected.

If using external speakers or soundbar, verify the connection supports audio switching. Some optical connections don't handle rapid audio source changes well.

Check volume levels on both input sources. Some devices (gaming consoles, cable boxes) have independent volume controls.

Issue 4: Split Screen Freezing or Lagging

Likely Causes:

• Too many background apps running

• One input source outputting very high resolution

• Memory or cache issues

Solutions:

Close unnecessary background apps: Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Applications → Force Stop unused apps.

Lower resolution on demanding sources. If one source outputs 4K HDR while split screen tries to render it alongside another 4K source, performance suffers.

Clear cache: Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Applications → Select an app → Clear Cache. Repeat for major apps.

Issue 5: Voice Commands Not Activating Split Screen

Likely Causes:

• Alexa not enabled

• Remote microphone not functioning

• WiFi connectivity issues affecting voice processing

Solutions:

Navigate to Settings → Alexa and verify the service is enabled.

Test your remote's microphone with a simple command like "Alexa, what time is it?" If that fails, the remote itself may need replacement or repair.

Check WiFi connectivity. Voice commands require internet access for processing.

When to Factory Reset

If multiple issues persist after trying targeted solutions, a factory reset sometimes resolves deep software problems. Navigate to Settings → Device & Software → Reset to Factory Defaults.

Warning: Factory reset erases all settings, app logins, and preferences. Only use this as a last resort.

For comprehensive guidance on reset procedures and data preservation, see how to reset Insignia TV to understand what the process entails before proceeding.

When to Contact Support

Consider contacting Insignia support (1-877-467-4289) or visiting Best Buy if:

• Split screen worked previously but suddenly stopped

• Multiple reset attempts fail

• Physical damage may have occurred

• The TV is still under warranty

General Insignia TV troubleshooting resources address broader issues that might affect split screen functionality indirectly.

Best Uses for Insignia TV Split Screen

Now that you've mastered activation and configuration, let's explore practical applications that justify the feature's existence.

Sports Multi-Viewing

This remains split screen's killer application. During March Madness, NFL Sunday, or any situation with simultaneous games you care about, 50/50 split lets you catch every important moment.

Optimal Setup:

• Use 50/50 layout for equally important games

• Assign audio focus to whichever game reaches critical moments

• Connect antenna for local games, streaming for out-of-market coverage

Gaming with Tutorial

Following a video walkthrough while actually playing significantly speeds up puzzle solving and strategy optimization.

Optimal Setup:

• 70/30 layout with game on the 70% side

• Tutorial video on 30% side (YouTube, streaming guide)

• Audio focus on game for immersion, glancing at muted tutorial as needed

For the best gaming experience alongside split screen, consider enabling Insignia TV game mode which reduces input lag on the gaming portion of your screen.

News Monitoring

Keep tabs on breaking developments without interrupting your primary entertainment.

Optimal Setup:

• 70/30 layout with main content on larger side

• News channel on 30% side, often muted

• Swap audio when significant stories develop

Work from Home Productivity

Video conferences on one side, reference materials on the other - useful for remote workers using a TV as a secondary display.

Optimal Setup:

• 50/50 for balanced attention

• Laptop/PC on one side via HDMI

• Documents or presentations on the other side

Security Camera Monitoring

If you have smart home cameras integrated with your Fire TV, display a camera feed while watching regular content.

Optimal Setup:

• 70/30 with entertainment dominant

• Camera feed in smaller window for passive monitoring

• Requires compatible smart home camera system

FAQ: Insignia TV Split Screen Common Questions

Does Insignia TV have split screen?

Yes, most Insignia Fire TV models manufactured from 2020 onwards support split screen functionality. This includes F30 Series (basic support), F50 Series (full features), and QF Series (advanced multi-view). Entry-level F20 Series models generally do not support split screen due to hardware limitations.

How do I enable split screen on Insignia Fire TV?

Press Home → navigate to Settings → select Display & Sounds → choose Split Screen or Multi-View → select Enable → choose your two input sources. The entire process takes approximately 2-3 minutes. Voice activation is faster: hold the microphone button and say "Alexa, open split screen."

Can I watch two channels at once on Insignia TV?

Yes, if your TV supports split screen. You can display two different broadcast channels simultaneously using an antenna for one and a cable box for another. However, watching two channels from the same antenna or cable source typically requires that device to support its own dual-tuner functionality.

Why can't I find split screen on my Insignia TV?

Several possibilities exist: your model may not support the feature (F20 Series and pre-2020 models), firmware may need updating (Settings → Device & Software → Check for Updates), the feature may be disabled in parental controls, or a software glitch may require a soft reset (unplug for 60 seconds).

Does split screen work with Netflix on Insignia TV?

Split screen support for streaming apps varies. Netflix and most major streaming services work on one side of a split screen, but some apps restrict simultaneous use with other content. Test your specific app combinations to confirm compatibility.

How do I change audio in split screen mode?

Press Menu while in split screen mode, then select Audio or Sound Settings. Choose whether the left or right screen provides audio. Alternatively, use voice commands: "Alexa, switch audio to left screen" or "Alexa, switch audio to right screen."

Can I use Alexa to control split screen?

Yes, Insignia Fire TVs with Alexa-enabled remotes support voice commands for split screen. Commands include "Alexa, open split screen," "Alexa, swap screens," "Alexa, switch audio to left/right," and "Alexa, close split screen."

What's the difference between split screen and PIP on Insignia?

Split screen divides your display into equal or proportional sections (50/50 or 70/30) with both sources visible side by side. Picture-in-Picture (PIP) displays secondary content as a small overlay window on top of your main full-screen content. Split screen works best for dual attention; PIP suits monitoring while focusing on primary content.

Conclusion: Mastering Split Screen on Your Insignia TV

Split screen transforms your Insignia TV from a single-purpose display into a genuine multitasking hub. Whether you're following two games during championship weekend, gaming while consulting a walkthrough, or monitoring news while enjoying entertainment, the feature delivers practical daily value.

The key takeaways from this guide:

Verify compatibility first. F30, F50, and QF Series models from 2020 onwards support split screen. F20 Series and older models do not. Check your model number to confirm before troubleshooting a "missing" feature.

Multiple activation methods exist. Remote navigation works universally, voice commands offer speed, and the smartphone app provides backup when remotes fail.

Customize for your use case. 50/50 splits work for equally important content; 70/30 ratios let you prioritize primary viewing while monitoring secondary content.

Troubleshooting follows patterns. Most issues trace back to firmware updates, input source problems, or audio configuration - all solvable with systematic approaches.

Now that you understand how to use Insignia TV split screen effectively, experiment with different input combinations and layout ratios to find your preferred configurations. The feature becomes increasingly useful once muscle memory develops for quick activation and adjustment.

For expanded content options to populate your split screen views, explore how to download apps on Insignia TV to add streaming services, games, and utility applications to your available sources.

Have questions about split screen or other Insignia TV features? Drop a comment below or contact Insignia Support at 1-877-467-4289.