Texting question

[stevex12]

This is a question regarding text messages on an iPhone12.

On the screen that displays the text messages to and from a particular correspondent, there is a leftward pointing arrow at top right.

Sometimes when I touch this arrow the main Messages screen is displayed. Other times when I touch the left arrow the area under the picture enlarges to display icons for audio, FaceTime and info.

What determines what happens when the left arrow is touched? What determines if the main Messages screen is displayed versus the three icons under the picture?

I would prefer to display the main Messages screen when the left arrow is touched. Is there a way to configure the arrow for that function?

Thanks.

 

[Just_Me_D]

The left arrow at the top goes to the previous screen. Touching the image in the top center of the screen brings up the option for Audio, FaceTime and Information.