Unlike Android, iPhones don’t have a dedicated back button. But if you prefer tapping over swiping, here’s how to add a virtual back button to your iPhone for easier navigation using built-in features like AssistiveTouch and Back Tap.
🧠Method 1: Use AssistiveTouch as a Back Button
- Step 1: Go to
Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch. - Step 2: Turn on AssistiveTouch. A floating button will appear on your screen.
- Step 3: Tap Customize Top Level Menu.
- Step 4: Replace an icon with “Back” or “Multi-Touch Gestures”.
- Use: Tap the AssistiveTouch icon any time to go back, just like a virtual button.
👆 Method 2: Enable Back Tap to Go Back
- Supported on: iPhone 8 and newer (iOS 14+).
- Step 1: Go to
Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. - Step 2: Set Double Tap or Triple Tap to “Go Back”.
- Result: You can now double-tap the back of your iPhone to trigger a back action.
🎯 Bonus: Use On-Screen Gestures
- Swipe: From the left edge of the screen to go back (default iOS gesture).
- Navigation Bar: In some apps, a back arrow appears in the top-left corner.
- AssistiveTouch: Can also simulate these swipes with custom gestures.
✅ Final Thoughts
Although iPhones don’t come with a built-in back button like Android, features like AssistiveTouch and Back Tap make it easy to add a virtual one. These accessibility options offer better control for users who prefer tapping over gestures.
Tip: You can also assign other useful functions to Back Tap, like taking screenshots or opening Control Center.
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