> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.notionapps.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.notionapps.com/screens-and-components/desktop-view.md).

# Desktop view

Canonical page for large-device layout: desktop vs forced mobile, split / master-detail, and how desktop nav interacts with lists.

## What this is / when to use it

By default, large devices use `LargeDeviceView.DESKTOP`: wider lists, optional **split** (master-detail), and desktop navigation (`TOP_TABS` or `DRAWER`). You can force `MOBILE` so a desktop browser shows the phone layout.

Use split when operators should keep the list visible while they read or edit one row (support, receiving, approvals adjacent to a data list).

When **not** to force mobile on desktop: only for apps that are truly phone-first and look wrong when wide. Most portals should stay `DESKTOP`.

## Before you start

The screen is a list, update list, or select-items screen if you want split. Forms have a separate how-to for [submit placement](https://docs.notionapps.com/how-to-guides/control-desktop-form-submit-placement).

## Build it

1. Open **Settings → Appearance** or the desktop view control on the screen (both exist; appearance is the app default).
2. Set large device view to `DESKTOP` or `MOBILE`.
3. On a list, enable **split / master-detail** when you want the right pane.
4. Set desktop nav on [App Navigation](https://docs.notionapps.com/screens-and-components/app-navigation).
5. Preview at a desktop width. Publish.

## Every control

| Control                     | Options                                | What it does                                                                |
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Large device view           | `DESKTOP` / `MOBILE`                   | App-wide chrome.                                                            |
| Split                       | On / off                               | List stays; details or update fields open beside it.                        |
| Desktop nav                 | `TOP_TABS` / `DRAWER`                  | See App Navigation.                                                         |
| Show mobile view on desktop | Same as `MOBILE`                       | Old heading; this is the current explanation.                               |
| Theme preset                | `compact` / `comfortable` / `showcase` | Density. See [Appearance](https://docs.notionapps.com/settings/appearance). |

## Show mobile view on desktop devices

This is the same control as large device view = `MOBILE`. A desktop browser then shows the phone column. Use it only for phone-first apps. Most portals should stay `DESKTOP`.

## What users see

**Desktop.** Wider cards, split pane when enabled, top tabs or a persistent drawer.

**Forced mobile.** Centered phone column even on a monitor.

**Split.** Clicking a row updates the pane without leaving the list. Bulk update still uses the list selection, not the pane.

## Limits and plans

* Split is not a second details screen. It reuses the details/update configuration.
* Native automation screens have their own desktop layouts (see each screen guide). Do not expect this split toggle to rewrite Work Queue.

## Example

Staff **Requests** update list: desktop split on, compact theme. Clicking a row edits Status in the pane. Bulk update still selects many rows on the left.

## Fix problems

| Symptom                    | Likely cause             | What to do                |
| -------------------------- | ------------------------ | ------------------------- |
| Desktop looks like a phone | `MOBILE` is on           | Set `DESKTOP`.            |
| Split missing              | Not a list family screen | Use a list / update list. |
| Old customize-app URL      | Product help updated     | This page is current.     |

## Related

[App Navigation](https://docs.notionapps.com/screens-and-components/app-navigation). [Appearance](https://docs.notionapps.com/settings/appearance). [View types](https://docs.notionapps.com/screens-and-components/customize-a-screen/view-types-list-grid-calendar-board).