Motion Actuation (2.5.4)

Functionality triggered by device motion (shaking, tilting) or user motion (gestures captured by a camera) must also be operable through a UI control, and the motion response can be disabled to prevent accidental activation.

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 driven by device sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, camera) that do not offer an alternative button or control and cannot be disabled.

Why it matters

Users who have their device mounted in a fixed position, users with tremors, or users who cannot perform specific physical motions need an alternative way to trigger the same functionality.

Common failure patterns

"shake to undo" with no on-screen undo button
tilt-to-scroll with no scroll controls or keyboard alternative
camera-based gesture recognition with no button fallback

Remediation guidance

provide an on-screen button or control for every motion-triggered action
allow users to disable motion-based activation in settings
if motion is essential to the functionality (e.g., a step counter), document the exception
test with the device in a fixed position to confirm all functionality is reachable through UI controls