Important: This website does not attempt to establish a standard for how assistive technologies must behave. Read the FAQ for more information. Additionally, this is a work in progress. Please submit feedback or suggestions.

Test: HTML links example 8 - A placeholder link that wraps many elements

Screen Reader support level: partial (29/33)

Voice Control support level: partial (7/15)

On this page

About this test

A placeholder link that wraps many elements

Submit new test results

Age of results

Results in this test range from 4 years ago to 6 years ago. See detailed information about test dates and versions for more information.

Caution

Failing or partial results may be out of date. The oldest result is from 6 years ago. Consider running this test and contributing results.

Test HTML

Open the test case HTML file

HTML source is too long to display here.

Summary of Screen Reader support by expectation

placeholder link element
ExpectationJAWSNarratorNVDAOrcaTalkBackVoiceOver (iOS)VoiceOver (macOS)
ChromeEdgeFirefoxEdgeChromeEdgeFirefoxFirefoxChromeSafariSafari
MUST convey its namesupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupported
MUST NOT convey the link role; OR MUST convey as a placeholder linksupportedsupportedsupportednonesupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupported
MUST NOT provide shortcuts to jump to this rolenonenonepartialsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupported

* means that some support is hidden behind settings

Summary of Voice Control support by expectation

placeholder link element
ExpectationDragon Naturally SpeakingVoice Access (Android)Voice Control (iOS)Voice Control (MacOS)Windows Speech RecognitionWindows Voice Access
ChromeChromeSafariSafariEdgeChromeEdgeChrome
MUST convey its namesupportedsupportedsupportedsupportedsupportednoneunknownunknown
MUST NOT convey the link role; OR MUST convey as a placeholder linknonesupportednot applicablesupportednonenoneunknownunknown

* means that some support is hidden behind settings

Summary of Keyboard support by expectation

placeholder link element
ExpectationWindows KeyboardMac KeyboardiOS KeyboardAndroid Keyboard
ChromeFirefoxEdgeChromeSafariSafariChrome
Not applicable

* means that some support is hidden behind settings

Detailed support results by expectation

Expectation for the placeholder link element: convey its name

This expectation is from the placeholder link element feature.

Rationale:

A screen reader user needs to know what to enter.

Strength of this expectation for different types of assistive technologies:

  • Screen Readers: MUST
  • Voice Control: MUST

Examples:

  • A screen reader will convey the text of the placeholder link
  • Voice control software might still recognize the name. This is helpful in cases where developers did not use semantic markup.

Grading method:

Just one of the listed commands must pass for the expectation to pass.

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Dragon Naturally Speaking and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: links were flagged for disambiguation
    • Command Notes: said "click tablet 9000!"
JAWSChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: no role conveyed
JAWSEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: no role conveyed
JAWSFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NarratorEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Jump to next item (scan mode)) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Narrator and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Jump to next item (scan mode))
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "text, readonly, <name>"
NVDAChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NVDAEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NVDAFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
OrcaFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Orca and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "tablet 9000! Turn all your widgets into mellbloms! Only $9.99 plus shipping and handling. tablet 9000!, heading level 3"
    • Result Notes: Entire placeholder link was announced, but then each line can be read individually
TalkBackChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe right (or alt+right arrow) (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch TalkBack and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe right (or alt+right arrow) (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "conveyed as static text"
Voice Access (Android)Chromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Tap <text>" or just "<text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Voice Access (Android) and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Tap <text>" or just "<text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link was not activated
    • Command Notes: said "tap tablet 9000"
Voice Control (iOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Tap <text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Voice Control (iOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Tap <text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: name was displayed
    • Command Notes: said "show names"
Voice Control (MacOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Voice Control (MacOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link was not clicked
    • Command Notes: said "click tablet 9000"
VoiceOver (iOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe Right (Next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (iOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe Right (Next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
VoiceOver (macOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use VO + Right arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (macOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: VO + Right arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: conveyed as static text, NOT followed by "clickable"
Windows Speech RecognitionEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Windows Speech Recognition and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was not activated
    • Command Notes: said "click tablet 9000"
Windows Speech RecognitionChromenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      1. Launch Windows Speech Recognition and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Click <text>" (Activate item by name)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was activated
    • Command Notes: said "click tablet 9000"
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
Windows Voice AccessEdgeunknown-
Windows Voice AccessChromeunknown-
Windows KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Windows KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Windows KeyboardEdgenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
iOS KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
Android KeyboardChromenot applicable-

Extended Support for: placeholder link element: convey its name

These are less common combinations

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingIEunknown-
Dragon Naturally SpeakingFirefoxunknown-
JAWS 2019.1906.10IE 11yes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and IE.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NarratorFirefoxunknown-
NarratorChromeunknown-
NarratorIEunknown-
NVDAIEunknown-
TalkBackFirefoxunknown-
Voice Access (Android)Firefoxunknown-
VoiceOver (iOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Firefoxunknown-
OrcaChromeunknown-
Voice Control (MacOS)Chromeunknown-
Voice Control (MacOS)Firefoxunknown-
Mac KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Android KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Back to top

Expectation for the placeholder link element: convey the link role; OR MUST convey as a placeholder link

This expectation is from the placeholder link element feature.

Rationale:

Since the link does not go anywhere, user needs to know that the link is not functional.

Strength of this expectation for different types of assistive technologies:

  • Screen Readers: MUST NOT
  • Voice Control: MUST NOT

Examples:

  • A screen reader might convey not convey any role for the link.
  • Voice control software will not suggest that the link is actionable.

Grading method:

Just one of the listed commands must pass for the expectation to pass.

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingChromenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use Click <role> (Click Type)
      1. Launch Dragon Naturally Speaking and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: Click <role> (Click Type)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: flagged as a link to choose from
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
JAWSChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: no role conveyed
JAWSEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: no role conveyed
JAWSFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NarratorEdgenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Jump to next item (scan mode)) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Narrator and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Jump to next item (scan mode))
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "text, readonly, <name>"
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Notes: The text role was conveyed along with the readonly state. No semantics should be conveyed.Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
NVDAChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NVDAEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NVDAFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch NVDA and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
OrcaFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Orca and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "tablet 9000! Turn all your widgets into mellbloms! Only $9.99 plus shipping and handling. tablet 9000!, heading level 3"
    • Result Notes: Entire placeholder link was announced, but then each line can be read individually
TalkBackChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe right (or alt+right arrow) (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch TalkBack and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe right (or alt+right arrow) (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: "conveyed as static text"
Voice Access (Android)Chromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      1. Launch Voice Access (Android) and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was not flagged with a number
    • Command Notes: said "show numbers"
Voice Control (iOS)Safarinot applicable-
Voice Control (MacOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      1. Launch Voice Control (MacOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was not flagged with a number
    • Command Notes: said "show numbers"
VoiceOver (iOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe Right (Next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (iOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe Right (Next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
VoiceOver (macOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use VO + Right arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (macOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: VO + Right arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: conveyed as static text, NOT followed by "clickable"
Windows Speech RecognitionEdgenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      1. Launch Windows Speech Recognition and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was flagged with a number
    • Command Notes: said "show numbers"
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
Windows Speech RecognitionChromenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      1. Launch Windows Speech Recognition and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Issue the command: "Show numbers" (Turn on the numbers overlay)
      5. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: role was flagged with a number
    • Command Notes: said "show numbers"
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
Windows Voice AccessEdgeunknown-
Windows Voice AccessChromeunknown-
Windows KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Windows KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Windows KeyboardEdgenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
iOS KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
Android KeyboardChromenot applicable-

Extended Support for: placeholder link element: convey the link role; OR MUST convey as a placeholder link

These are less common combinations

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingIEunknown-
Dragon Naturally SpeakingFirefoxunknown-
JAWS 2019.1906.10IE 11yes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Down arrow (Read next item) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch JAWS and IE.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Down arrow (Read next item)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: link role was not conveyed
NarratorFirefoxunknown-
NarratorChromeunknown-
NarratorIEunknown-
NVDAIEunknown-
TalkBackFirefoxunknown-
Voice Access (Android)Firefoxunknown-
VoiceOver (iOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Firefoxunknown-
OrcaChromeunknown-
Voice Control (MacOS)Chromeunknown-
Voice Control (MacOS)Firefoxunknown-
Mac KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Android KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Back to top

Expectation for the placeholder link element: provide shortcuts to jump to this role

This expectation is from the placeholder link element feature.

Rationale:

Screen reader users might want to quickly navigate to elements of this type.

Strength of this expectation for different types of assistive technologies:

  • Screen Readers: MUST NOT
  • Voice Control: NA

Grading method:

Just one of the listed commands must pass for the expectation to pass.

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingChromenot applicable-
JAWSChromenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use Insert + F3 (Open element list)
      1. Launch JAWS and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Insert + F3 (Open element list)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links.
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Notes: partial support because HTML5 does not call these anchors.Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
JAWSEdgenone
  • Result: (fail)
    • Test Case: Use Insert + F3 (Open element list)
      1. Launch JAWS and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Insert + F3 (Open element list)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links.
    • Grading note: This command may be expected to fail. This result simply indicates that it did not yield support.
Grading Note: There is no known/documented support. There may still be support for this expectation, but it is undocumented. If this is the case, please report this issue.
JAWSFirefoxpartial
  • Result: (partial)
    • Test Case: Use Insert + F3 (Open element list)
      1. Launch JAWS and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Insert + F3 (Open element list)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links, but it was included in the list of anchors.
Notes: partial support because HTML5 does not call these anchors.
NarratorEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use k (Next link) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Narrator and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: k (Next link)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not found as a link
NVDAChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
      1. Launch NVDA and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links
NVDAEdgeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
      1. Launch NVDA and Edge.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links
NVDAFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
      1. Launch NVDA and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: NVDA + F7 (Open Elements List)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links
OrcaFirefoxyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use k (Next link) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Orca and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: k (Next link)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: not found
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use alt + shift+ k (Open a list of links) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch Orca and Firefox.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: alt + shift+ k (Open a list of links)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: not found
TalkBackChromeyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe down (alt+L) (next link (correct reading control must be selected)) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch TalkBack and Chrome.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe down (alt+L) (next link (correct reading control must be selected))
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: not included in link navigation
Voice Access (Android)Chromenot applicable-
Voice Control (iOS)Safarinot applicable-
Voice Control (MacOS)Safarinot applicable-
VoiceOver (iOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use Swipe down (next link (correct item type must be selected)) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (iOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Swipe down (next link (correct item type must be selected))
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links
VoiceOver (macOS)Safariyes
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use VO + Command + L (Next Link) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (macOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: VO + Command + L (Next Link)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: not found as a link
  • Result: (pass)
    • Test Case: Use VO + U (Open Rotor) to navigate forward to `a:not([href])`
      1. Launch VoiceOver (macOS) and Safari.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Virtual focus is: before target
        • Keyboard focus is: before target
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: VO + U (Open Rotor)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: target
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: not included in the list of links
Windows Speech RecognitionEdgenot applicable-
Windows Speech RecognitionChromenot applicable-
Windows Voice AccessEdgenot applicable-
Windows Voice AccessChromenot applicable-
Windows KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Windows KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Windows KeyboardEdgenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardChromenot applicable-
Mac KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
iOS KeyboardSafarinot applicable-
Android KeyboardChromenot applicable-

Extended Support for: placeholder link element: provide shortcuts to jump to this role

These are less common combinations

ATBrowserHas SupportOutput
Dragon Naturally SpeakingIEnot applicable-
Dragon Naturally SpeakingFirefoxnot applicable-
JAWS 2019.1906.10IE 11partial
  • Result: (partial)
    • Test Case: Use Insert + F3 (Open element list)
      1. Launch JAWS and IE.
      2. Navigate to the test page.
      3. Find the target element(s) that you will test against. Identify all elements that match this selector:a:not([href])
        • If multiple elements match the selector, repeat this test for all instances. However, choose a single instance to report against. If you feel that the selector should be more specific, please open a GitHub Issue.
      4. Position and configure the screen reader so that the following conditions are met
        • Mode is: auto (do not explicitly change the mode)
      5. Issue the command: Insert + F3 (Open element list)
        • After issuing the command, virtual focus should be: na
      6. Record results for the relevant expectations
    • Output: Not included in list of links, but it was included in the list of anchors.
NarratorFirefoxunknown-
NarratorChromeunknown-
NarratorIEunknown-
NVDAIEunknown-
TalkBackFirefoxunknown-
Voice Access (Android)Firefoxnot applicable-
VoiceOver (iOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Chromeunknown-
VoiceOver (macOS)Firefoxunknown-
OrcaChromeunknown-
Voice Control (MacOS)Chromenot applicable-
Voice Control (MacOS)Firefoxnot applicable-
Mac KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Android KeyboardFirefoxnot applicable-
Back to top

Dates and Versions of tested combinations

ATAT VersionBrowserBrowser versionOS versionDate tested
Dragon Naturally Speaking15.30Chrome75Windows 10 version 19032019-07-24
JAWS2021.2107.12Chrome92Windows 10 version 21h12021-07-30
JAWS2021.2107.12Edge92Windows 10 version 21h12021-07-30
JAWS2019.1906.10Firefox68Windows 10 version 19032019-07-24
NarratorWindows 10 version 1903Edge44Windows 10 version 19032019-07-24
NVDA2021.1Chrome92Windows 10 version 21h12021-07-30
NVDA2021.1Edge92Windows 10 version 21h12021-07-30
NVDA2019.1.1Firefox68Windows 10 version 19032019-07-24
Orca3.31.4Firefox69Ubuntu 19.042019-09-16
TalkBack7Chrome7572019-07-26
Voice Access (Android)3.1Chrome7772019-10-02
Voice Control (iOS)13.0Safari13.013.02019-09-23
Voice Control (MacOS)10.15Safari13.0.210.152019-10-07
VoiceOver (iOS)12.3.1Safari12.3.112.3.12019-07-24
VoiceOver (macOS)10.14.5Safari12.1.110.14.52019-07-24
Windows Speech RecognitionWindows 10 version 1903Edge44Windows 10 version 19032019-10-18
Windows Speech RecognitionWindows 10 version 1903Chrome77Windows 10 version 19032019-10-18

History

  • 2019-07-28 Test created
  • 2019-09-16 Add orca results
  • 2019-09-23 Added vc_ios results
  • 2019-10-02 Add va_and results
  • 2019-10-07 Add vc_macos results
  • 2019-10-18 Add wsr results
  • 2021-07-30 Added Narrator results for NVDA and JAWS, updated NVDA+Chrome results.

This test is found in the following features:

Feedback and Contribute

We use our GitHub repository to manage our issue tracking. Please provide as much information as you can for issues, and please leave the id in the issue title intact.

Other

What are expectations and how are they determined?