Related Articles
In the past, we’ve recommended LinkBubble and Flynx to load URLs in the background on Android while you continue reading Twitter, Facebook, or RSS. Both applications create a floating button that represents the prefetched URL, similar to opening a link in a new tab without switching to it. When you’re ready to read the link, you can tap on the button to view it.
Thankfully, this multitasking ability is not limited to websites, and can be used for other apps on your Android device with Pintasking, by PhinxApps. Here’s how:
- Grab a copy of Pintasking for your Android 4.1+ device. The free version supports two pins, while the Pro version supports unlimited pins.
Note: If you see an alert to enable the Pintasking accessibility service, this can be done by going to Settings > Accessiblity > tap Pintasking > toggle On.
Enlarge ImageNicole Cozma/CNET
- When you’re ready to minimize an app, open the notification shade and select Tap to pin. This notification will only appear when the shade is opened.
Enlarge ImageNicole Cozma/CNET
- After you’ve pinned at least two apps, you can easily switch between them with a single tap on their floating icon. Opening apps other than the pinned ones will not remove the pins.
If you need to juggle more than two apps, consider upgrading to the Pro version. It also comes with bonus features like the ability to change the pin size and a pseudo alt-tab shortcut, among others.
Do you prefer this to native Android multitasking? Share your thoughts in the comments.
(Via Lifehacker)
