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iOS Link

How to test a link

Gherkin Condensed

Given that I am on a screen with a link

1 Keyboard only

WHEN I use the arrow keys or ctrl + tab to move focus to a link I SEE focus is visually indicated (strongly if high contrast enabled)
Then when I use the spacebar to activate the link I SEE the destination opens in a web browser

2 VoiceOver screenreader

WHEN I use a screenreader AND I swipe to focus on a link
- I HEAR its purpose is clear and matches visible label
- I HEAR it identifies itself as a link
Then when I doubletap with the link in focus I HEAR the destination opens in a web browser

3 Device settings

When I use Text resize I SEE text can resize up to 200% without losing information
When I use Increased contrast I SEE focus outline becomes high contrast

1 Keyboard actions

When I use	I see/hear
Arrow keys or ctrl + tab	Focus visibly moves to the link
Spacebar	Activates the link

2 Mobile screenreader gestures

When I use	I hear
Swipe	Focus moves to the element, expresses its name, role, state
Doubletap	Activates the link

3 Screenreader output

Reads	I hear
Name	Its purpose is clear and matches visible label
Role	It identifies itself as a link

4 Device settings

When I use	I see
Text resize	Text can resize up to 200% without losing information
Increased contrast	Focus outline becomes high contrast

Usage

Links vs buttons

The rule is simple:

If it goes somewhere (outside the app) it’s a link
If it does something (inside the app) it’s a button

This distinction is important because it helps a person using a screen reader know what to expect upon activating the control.

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