To create a split-screen video, open the TikTok camera and tap the “Layout” icon on the right-hand toolbar. Choose your preferred grid (e.g., vertical or horizontal split). Record the first segment for the top/left frame, and then record the second segment for the bottom/right frame. Tap the checkmark to merge them into one split-screen video.
This guide provides the exact steps to use the new “Layout” camera tool within the TikTok app as of January 2026. It focuses on recording multi-frame content in real-time.
Steps to Record Split-Screen using the Layout Tool
Follow these steps to use the new dedicated Layout menu on your camera screen:
- Open the Camera: Tap the “+” icon to enter the creation mode.
- Locate Layout: On the right-hand vertical menu, tap the “Layout” icon (represented by a square divided into sections).
- Choose Your Split: A sub-menu will appear. Select the type of split-screen you want (e.g., side-by-side vertical or top-and-bottom horizontal).
- Record the First Section: Press and hold the record button to capture the first part of your video. This will fill the first frame of your layout.
- Record the Second Section: After finishing the first clip, the camera will automatically switch focus to the empty frame. Record your second segment.
- Preview and Save: Tap the pink checkmark once all sections are filled to see your final split-screen video.
This method is designed for real-time recording in a split-frame format. Please note that if you have already recorded your videos separately and wish to overlay them in a non-grid format, you should use the Picture-in-Picture effect instead, as the Layout tool follows a strict grid structure.
What This Does NOT Do
The Layout camera tool is for recording new footage segment-by-segment. It does not allow for advanced mask editing or complex transitions between the split frames, and it is not intended for “dueting” with other users’ existing videos.
Next Step: Once you have recorded your split-screen video, you can add a professional finish to your content. Learn how to find popular TikTok effects to apply to your clips to make your new layout stand out on the For You page.
📅 Accuracy Check (January 2026): The placement of the “Layout” icon in the right-hand vertical toolbar and its segment-by-recording functionality have been verified in the latest TikTok 2026 update.
TopQLearn Editorial Team
Expert Analysis & Educational Content
