All touch interactions can be performed with a single finger
Functionality that requires complex or multi-touch gestures should also be operable with a single touch or pointer gesture. This ensures that users who cannot perform multi-point or path-based gestures have access to all functions. This requirement applies to web content but does not extend to actions necessary for the operation of the user agent or assistive technology.
Acceptance Criteria
• Any function that is activated by multi-touch or path-based gestures must also be operable with a single touch or pointer gesture, unless the complex gesture is essential to the functionality.
Examples
• A drawing application that allows users to draw with multiple fingers should also support drawing with a single finger or pointer.
• A zoom feature activated by pinching should also be accessible through a single touch action, such as tapping or using a zoom button.
Exceptions
• If a multi-touch or path-based gesture is essential for the functionality or the operation of the web content, then a single-touch alternative is not required.
Tips
• Test touch interactions on various devices to ensure they are accessible with single-touch gestures.
• Provide alternative controls or options for users who might struggle with complex gestures.
How to test?
• Attempt to operate all interactive elements using only a single touch or pointer gesture.
• Ensure that all functions can be performed without requiring multi-touch or path-based gestures, except where such gestures are absolutely necessary.