Pointer Gestures (2.5.1)

Functionality that uses multi-point or path-based gestures must also be operable with a single-pointer action without a path-based gesture, unless the gesture is essential.

WCAG Reference

Applies to: WCAG 2.1, WCAG 2.2 Introduced in: WCAG 2.1 | Level: A | Read the official specification →

What this rule checks

The scanner identifies interactions that require multi-touch gestures (pinch, two-finger swipe) or precise path-based gestures (drawing a shape, swiping in a specific direction) without a single-click or single-tap alternative.

Why it matters

Users with motor disabilities may not be able to perform multi-finger gestures or trace precise paths. Providing a single-pointer alternative ensures these users can still access the functionality.

Common failure patterns

pinch-to-zoom as the only way to resize a map or image (no +/- buttons)
swipe-to-delete with no alternative button or menu option
drawing-based interactions (signatures, annotations) with no keyboard or button fallback
two-finger scroll required to navigate within an embedded region

Remediation guidance

add button controls for zoom, pan, and delete alongside gesture support
provide single-tap or single-click alternatives for every multi-point gesture
for path-based input, offer an alternative method (e.g., typed input, button sequences)
test with a single mouse click/tap only to confirm all features remain accessible