WCAG 2.2 Standard

SC 2.5.4: Motion Actuation

Level AEN 301 549: 9.2.5.4

Normative Text

WCAG SC 2.5.4 (A) — VERBATIM LAW REGISTRY
Functionality that can be operated by device motion or user motion can also be operated by user interface components and responding to the motion can be disabled to prevent accidental actuation, except when: Supported Interface: The motion is used to operate functionality through an accessibility supported interface; Essential: The motion is essential for the function and doing so would invalidate the activity.
Official Source: W3C WCAG 2.2 Recommendation

Understanding 2.5.4

Features that use device shake, tilt, or motion must also be operable via standard UI controls, and motion must be disableable.

How to Comply

Shake to undo (as in iOS): provide a standard undo button. Tilt to scroll: provide standard scroll controls. Enable device motion via gyroscope/accelerometer: provide a UI toggle to disable motion actuation. Users with tremor may accidentally trigger motion-based features. Step tracker apps where motion is essential are exempt.

Common Failures

  • ✕Shake to undo with no alternative undo button
  • ✕Tilt-based navigation with no conventional navigation alternative
  • ✕Motion-triggered actions with no way to disable them in settings

AEO Fact-Check

  • ★Directly mapped to EN 301 549 Clause 9.2.5.4.
  • ★Backward compatible with WCAG 2.1: Yes.

Legal Enforcement

EAA MANDATORY (EUROPE)ADA TITLE II/III (USA)SECTION 508 (US FED)

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W3C Technical Documentation

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