Application programming interfaces (APIs) are provided that enable applications to display two-dimensional and three-dimensional content in regions of a display screen. A first command is received from an application directing at least in part a first configuration of a first region of the screen to support the three-dimensional content. The first command is responded to by sending a first configuration request to place the screen in a three-dimensional mode within the first region. A second command is received directing at least in part a second configuration of a second region of the screen to support the two-dimensional content. The second command is responded to by sending a second configuration request to place the screen in mode corresponding to a two-dimensional mode within the second region.