Gesture alternatives

Make sure all functionality can be controlled through simple, single-pointer actions that do not require precise movements.

Overview

What you need to do

Provide simple alternatives to custom multi-point gestures (like pinch-to-zoom) and path-based gestures (like drawing or swiping). Offer single-pointer alternatives to drag-and-drop functionality. Make sure all app features remain accessible through simple tap, press, or button-based interactions.

Meeting the Web Accessibility Standard

When all functions that require complex gestures (like pinch or swipe patterns) can also be operated with simple taps or clicks, it meets WCAG 2 Success Criterion 2.5.1 Pointer Gestures(Level A).

When all functions that require dragging can also be operated without dragging, (unless the dragging is essential), it meets WCAG 2 Success Criterion 2.5.7 Dragging Movements(Level AA).

Why this matters

Complex gestures can be impossible for users with motor disabilities, tremors, or limited dexterity. Without simple alternatives, these users cannot access core app functionality. Providing gesture alternatives also helps users with assistive technologies, prosthetics, or anyone using the app in challenging environments.

When this applies

Note: Native controls with associated gestures normally include single point interaction support, e.g. tab controls.

In iOS, AssistiveTouch is an accessibility feature that enables users to replace complex gestures with single tap gestures. For more, read Use AssistiveTouch on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch — Apple Support.

Nothing like AssistiveTouch currently exists in Android, which will require additional support for any functionality that relies on complex gestures.

When you need pointer gesture alternatives

Pinch gestures: Zoom in/out, scale content, resize elements
Multi-finger swipes: Three-finger navigation, multi-touch controls
Complex path gestures: Drawing, signature capture, pattern unlock
Rotation gestures: Rotating images, maps, or 3D objects

When you need dragging alternatives

Drag-and-drop: File uploads, list reordering, content organization
Sliders and scrubbers: Volume controls, video seeking, range inputs
Swipe actions: Delete items, archive content, reveal options
Pan and scroll: Map navigation, large image viewing

When alternatives aren’t required

Essential functionality: Digital art apps where drawing is the core purpose
Accessibility features: Gestures specifically designed for accessibility
Single-pointer gestures: Simple taps, clicks, or single-finger swipes

Design

Checklist for accessible gesture alternatives

Provide visible buttons for zoom in/out functionality.
Include tap-based alternatives to drag-and-drop.
Design increment/decrement buttons for sliders.
Offer menu-based or button alternatives to swipe actions.
Show gesture hints without requiring gesture use.
Ensure alternatives are equally prominent and discoverable.
Test all functionality works without complex gestures.

Design resources

Development

iOS implementation

For technical guidance on providing accessible alternatives to gestures and dragging, see:

For complete guides on iOS accessibility from Apple Developer Documentation, read:

Android implementation

For technical guidance on providing accessible alternatives to gestures and dragging, see:

For a complete guide on Android app accessibility, see Make apps more accessible — Android Developers.

Testing

Quick test

These quick steps will help you verify that all app functionality can be used via single-pointer gestures without requiring complex movements.

Disable multi-touch gestures — turn off in the device settings if possible.
Use only single-finger taps — can you access all functionality?
Test without dragging — do button alternatives work for drag actions?
Try with AssistiveTouch enabled (iOS) or similar accessibility features.
Use switch control — can you operate all features with simple selections?
Test with external pointing device — mouse or trackpad alternatives.

Testing resources

These tools and guides help you validate form accessibility across different platforms and assistive technologies.

iOS — Accessibillity Inspector — Apple Developer Documentation
Android — Accessibility Scanner — Android Accessibility Help
Android — axe Accessibility Analyzer — Deque Systems — Google Play.