How to Go Back on iPhone Navigation Tips

How to Go Back on iPhone: Navigation Tips & Tricks.

iPhone Back Button Gesture Tutorial. Learn How to Return to Previous Screen in iOS.

Amazon links

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases:

iPhone Accessories
iPhone Charger
iPhone Cases
iPhone Screen protector
iPhone Magsafe
iPhone Wallet
iPhone Usb c cable

If you find yourself stuck in an app or menu, trying to figure out how to go back on your iPhone, you’re not alone. Unlike Android, where a universal back button exists, iPhone navigation relies on gestures and in-app controls.

How to Go Back on iPhone Navigation Tips & Tricks.

In this guide, I’ll explain the different ways to go back on your iPhone, when you have a model with or without a Home button. These methods work on all iPhones, including the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max (tested on iOS 18.4.1) and older models like the iPhone 15.

Method 1: Swipe from the Left Edge (The Universal Back Gesture)

The easiest way to go back in most apps is by swiping from the left edge of the screen toward the right. This works in:

• Safari (go back to the previous webpage)
• Messages (return to your conversation list)
• Settings (go back to the previous menu)
• Most Apple apps and many third-party apps

How to do it:

1. Place your thumb or finger near the left edge of the screen.
2. Swipe gently to the right.
3. The screen will slide back to the previous view.

Note: Some apps (like games) may not support this gesture.

Method 2: Using the Back Button in Apps

Many apps include a back button in the top-left corner. This is common in:

• Mail
• Photos
• App Store
• Google Chrome & Firefox (when browsing)

How to use it:

1. Look for a “< Back” or arrow button in the top-left corner.
2. Tap it to return to the previous screen.

Tip: If the button is hard to reach, try swiping from the left edge instead.

Method 3: Swipe Up from the Bottom (For Full-Screen Apps)

Some apps (like videos or games) hide the navigation bar. To exit:

1. Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen.
2. This will either minimize the app or reveal the back button.

Method 4: Using the Home Bar (For iPhones Without a Home Button)

If your iPhone has a Home Bar (a thin line at the bottom), you can use these gestures:

• Swipe right along the Home Bar Switches between recent apps (not exactly a back gesture, but useful for quick navigation).
• Swipe up and hold Opens the app switcher, letting you jump to another app.

Why Some Apps Handle Back Navigation Differently

Unlike Android, where the back button works the same everywhere, iPhone apps can decide how back navigation works. This is why:

• Some apps use swipe gestures.
• Others rely on top-left buttons.
• A few (like games) require exiting the app entirely.

It can be confusing at first, but once you learn the main gestures, navigating your iPhone becomes much easier.

Final Thoughts

Going back on an iPhone isn’t as straightforward as on Android, but the gestures are smooth once you get used to them. The best method is usually the left-edge swipe, but keep the top-left back button and Home Bar gestures in mind too.

If you ever get stuck, just experiment with swipes and taps in most apps follow Apple’s design guidelines, so navigation stays consistent.

Did I miss any back navigation tricks? Let me know in the comments!