Color Contrast Issues

Text and meaningful visual elements in iOS apps must maintain sufficient contrast against their backgrounds to remain readable for all users.

WCAG Reference

Maps to: WCAG 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum) | Applies to: WCAG 2.0, WCAG 2.1, WCAG 2.2 Introduced in: WCAG 2.0 | Level: AA | Read the official specification →

What this rule checks

The scanner measures the contrast ratio between foreground text or icon colors and their backgrounds, flagging pairs that fall below 4.5:1 for normal text or 3:1 for large text.

Why it matters

Users with low vision, color-vision deficiencies, or those using devices in bright outdoor conditions depend on adequate contrast. Low contrast makes text illegible and UI elements indistinguishable.

Common failure patterns

• light gray text on white backgrounds in settings or list cells
• placeholder text in UITextField with very low contrast
• status indicators using pale colors on light backgrounds
• custom themes or dark mode implementations where contrast ratios were not validated

Remediation guidance

• verify text contrast against backgrounds using a color contrast analyzer or Xcode Accessibility Inspector
• use Dynamic Colors or semantic color assets that adjust automatically for light and dark modes
• ensure all text states (enabled, disabled, placeholder) meet minimum contrast ratios
• test with Increase Contrast enabled in iOS Accessibility settings

Related docs

• iOS Rule Repository
• Accessibility Issue Remediation Guide