The Introduction of WCAG 2.2

As Accessibility and User Experience Specialists, we recognise the importance of inclusive digital content and platforms. With WCAG 2.2 on the horizon, staying informed is crucial. Discover the upcoming changes and learn how you can improve the user experience for your digital services by making them truly accessible to everyone.

What are the key differences between WCAG 2.1 and WCAG 2.2?

Enhanced Mobile Accessibility

WCAG 2.2 puts a greater emphasis on mobile accessibility, recognising the significant shift towards mobile usage. It introduces new success criteria specifically targeting mobile devices, such as touch gestures, motion sensitivity, and device orientation. UK councils should prioritise assessing the compatibility of their digital content with various mobile devices to ensure seamless access for all residents.

Contrast and Sensory Characteristics

WCAG 2.2 introduces additional contrast requirements, focusing on non-text elements, graphs, and charts. It also addresses sensory characteristics such as orientation and information presentation to cater to individuals with cognitive and learning disabilities. Councils must review their website’s design and visual elements to meet these new guidelines effectively.

Improved Accessibility for Users with Low Vision

WCAG 2.2 aims to improve the browsing experience for individuals with low vision. It introduces new criteria concerning reflowable content, text spacing, and adaptability settings. Councils should prioritise reviewing the readability and customization options of their content to accommodate users with varying degrees of visual impairment.

Making Keyboard Navigation More Intuitive

WCAG 2.2 extends the requirements for keyboard navigation, ensuring that all interactive elements can be accessed and used through keyboard input alone. This is crucial for individuals who rely on keyboard navigation due to motor disabilities. Councils should assess their websites and applications to guarantee a seamless keyboard-only experience.

Enhancing Content Navigation

WCAG 2.2 introduces new guidelines related to website navigation, focusing on headings, labels, and landmarks. These updates help individuals who use screen readers to understand and navigate through web content more efficiently. UK councils should prioritise reviewing their website’s structure and implementing proper heading levels and landmark elements.

Reducing the Risk of Seizures

WCAG 2.2 addresses the risk of seizures caused by flashing or animated content. It introduces updated guidelines for ensuring content does not exceed seizure threshold limits. UK councils should conduct a thorough review of their multimedia and animations to mitigate seizure risks for users with epilepsy.

How you can get started

Considering what we’ve discussed, it’s a good idea to begin by concentrating on these crucial areas:

1. Mobile Compatibility

Ensure that all digital content and services are accessible and usable on mobile devices, particularly touch gestures, motion sensitivity, and device orientation.

2. Low Vision Accessibility

Make necessary adjustments to allow reflowable content and provide text spacing options for users with low vision.

3. Content Navigation

Implement proper heading levels, labels, and landmarks to enhance content navigation for users relying on screen readers.

4. Contrast and Sensory Characteristics

Review and enhance the contrast of non-text elements and improve content presentation for users with cognitive and learning disabilities.

5. Keyboard Navigation

Guarantee all interactive elements can be accessed and used via keyboard alone, catering to users with motor disabilities.

Let us know if we can help you

Welcome the WCAG 2.2 changes with confidence, supported by Invuse. Our team is here to work with you, ensuring your online presence is accessible and inclusive. Book a consultation today to find out how our Accessibility Health Check can start your journey towards a more connected and inclusive community.