14 Point Mobile App Accessibility Checklist You Need

Ensuring that mobile apps are accessible is essential for providing an inclusive user experience. Accessibility means making sure that people with disabilities can use and benefit from your app. Below is a detailed mobile app accessibility checklist to guide you in creating an app that is usable by everyone.

Mobile App Accessibility Checklist

1. Screen Reader Compatibility
Ensure the app works seamlessly with screen readers such as VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android).
Use semantic HTML and proper labeling for interactive elements.
Test screen reader compatibility by navigating through the app using only voice commands.

2. Color Contrast
Maintain a high contrast ratio between text and background for readability.
Ensure that text is legible for users with color blindness.
Use tools like the WebAIM Color Contrast Checker to verify color contrast.

3. Text Size and Scaling
Allow users to adjust text size without breaking the layout.
Test text scaling across different devices and screen sizes.
Implement dynamic type for iOS and scalable units for Android.

4. Touch Target Size
Make buttons and interactive elements large enough to be easily tapped.
Follow guidelines such as a minimum touch target size of 44×44 pixels.
Ensure that touch targets are spaced adequately to avoid accidental taps.

5. Alternative Text for Images
Provide descriptive alt text for images, icons, and non-text content.
Ensure that images convey meaning and are not solely decorative.
Use appropriate alternative text for charts and graphs to convey information.

6. Keyboard Accessibility
Ensure that all interactive elements are navigable via the device’s keyboard (for devices with physical keyboards or keyboard assistive tools).
Provide a logical navigation flow for users with keyboard-only input.
Test the app using external keyboards for smooth navigation.

7. Voice Control Compatibility
Ensure that your app works with voice commands and voice control features like Siri or Google Assistant.
Allow users to navigate through key functions using voice commands.
Test voice interactions thoroughly to confirm accuracy and responsiveness.

8. Clear Error Messages and Instructions
Provide clear and concise error messages that help users understand and fix issues.
Include instructions on how to resolve problems (e.g., incorrect form fields, missing information).
Use visual, auditory, and haptic feedback to notify users of errors.

9. Focus Indicators and Visual Cues
Ensure that there is a visible focus indicator on interactive elements (e.g., buttons, links, form fields).
Provide clear visual feedback when elements are selected, hovered over, or activated.
Use borders, highlights, or animations to draw attention to focused elements.

10. Accessible Forms and Inputs
Label all form fields with descriptive, easy-to-understand labels.
Group related form fields together and use clear instructions for completing forms.
Ensure that error messages are associated with the relevant form fields.

11. Customizable UI Elements
Allow users to personalize the UI elements, such as adjusting font size, contrast, and color schemes.
Support users in customizing app settings to accommodate their specific accessibility needs.
Include a dark mode option to assist users with light sensitivity.

12. Captions and Transcripts for Multimedia
Provide captions for videos to make them accessible to users with hearing impairments.
Offer transcripts for audio content and other multimedia elements.
Ensure that captions are synchronized with audio and video.

13. Time Limits and Notifications
Provide users with sufficient time to complete tasks and respond to notifications.
Allow users to pause, adjust, or extend time limits where applicable.
Notify users of any time-sensitive actions or events and ensure they are accessible.

14. Test with Real Users
Conduct usability testing with individuals who have different disabilities to identify potential issues.
Include users with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments in your testing process.
Iterate based on user feedback and continuously improve accessibility features.

Accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about creating an app that can be enjoyed and used by everyone. By following this checklist, you ensure your mobile app meets the needs of all users, including those with disabilities. Accessible design enhances user satisfaction, increases app adoption, and fosters inclusivity, contributing to a positive reputation for your app.