I'm trying to use messages in split view. The issue is that when I make the window narrow, it only shows one conversation. I cannot find any way to switch to another conversation, or send a message to someone not in the current conversation. I Tried to look at all menus. Is there a way, or is it just that Apple didn't think this through?
The split view window for messages should take up approx. half the width of your screen. Your contact pane in that window can be varied in width by clicking on the vertical separator and dragging it
But here is what I want: mail taking up around 3/4 of the screen, messages 1/4. Then there is no way to go back to a list of conversations. In iOS messages have a kind of back button '< messages.' But that is missing from the OSX view. I'm thinking Apple didn't think of it.
As an additional example: I was running mail+messages on a small screen. It seems mail needs a minimum width. And the width left over for messages does not allow the conversation pane. And then there is (it seems) absolute no way to switch to a different conversation. Apple must have forgotten to update messages for split view.
What I really hoped for was a narrow version of messages very similar in functionality to messages on an iPhone (i.e., with a < messages button).
I found the solution (through Macrumors). You have to hover the mouse cursor near the split view partition line, but not on it. Then the conversations pane will slide out. Have patience!
Excellent find, but really sucky UX from OS X team. The conversations popup needs to have a visible button to be clicked on. Hover, for which you have to go to Macrumors to learn about is not good UI design.
Thank you for finding this. This is really bad design, Apple. If it were a 3rd party app, I'd understand. But this is Apple's flagship all-in-one messaging app. I hope someone sees this and passes it along to the design team.
Messages in split view doesn't really work
