Make XML Split view default in Android Studio 3.6+?

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In Android Studio 3.6 and above, an XML file always opens in the "Code" view by default. How do I make it open in "Split" view by default?

3 Answers

In Android Studio 3.6 if you open Preference->Editor->Layout editor you can see for this case only check/uncheck "Prefer XML editor" for show modes "Code" or "Design" view without "Split", very strange... Waiting for possibility check mode "Split"

UPDATED

Now Android Studio 4.0 has "Split" option. Nice!

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UPDATED

Now for Android Studio "Arctic Fox" - Preferences -> Editor -> Design Tools. Nice!

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Here's what worked for me, hope it works for you too.

  1. Close all tabs in your editors.
  2. Open one xml file and click on the split view button at the top-right section of the tab.
  3. Close the tab again.

Android Studio then remembered my selection for all other tabs opened from then on.

 keyMap for ShortCuts Using the keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl + Shift + Left/Right Arrow if you are on a Mac, or Alt + Shift + Left/Right Arrow otherwise):

  • Code: provides the functionality of an XML text editor.

  • Design: consists of a view containing the design editor (e.g. navigation graph, layout) that can be used to edit the file graphically.

  • Split: displays both Code and Design side-by-side, so you can preview your design while editing the text.

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