Screen reader
A screen reader makes digital content available through speech or Braille. Meaningful structure and labels support understandable interaction.
Use content beyond its visual presentation
A screen reader is assistive software that makes digital content and controls available through speech output or a Braille display. It also communicates information such as headings, links and a field's state. It does not simply read out a screenshot.
In an example customer portal, a person can navigate by headings directly to “Invoices”. A correctly labelled download link identifies the invoice. If the link consists only of an unlabelled icon, that guidance is missing.
A general text-to-speech feature does not automatically provide the same navigation and interaction. A useful screen reader test therefore checks actual tasks and the meaning of controls. Understandable visual design remains necessary too; people use different tools and combinations.
Sources
Related terms
- Semantic HTMLSemantic HTML uses elements according to their meaning. A real button has properties that a styled text block does not acquire automatically.
- Alternative textAlternative text conveys an image’s meaning or function in context. Purely decorative images need different treatment.
- Focus orderFocus order determines the route through focusable elements. It should preserve meaning and operability, including during dynamic changes.
- Keyboard trapA keyboard trap leaves keyboard users stuck within a region. Deliberately containing focus in a dialog needs a keyboard-operable exit.
- Skip linkA skip link bypasses repeated navigation and leads to the main content. The destination must also work for subsequent keyboard navigation.
- Accessible nameAn accessible name labels a control for assistive technology. It should explain the action and agree with the visible text.
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