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Creating Accessible React Native Apps

Scott Vinkle

Shopify

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React Native is a framework used to create native iOS and Android apps in a way web developers may already be familiar with. But how do you ensure your React Native apps are inclusive and usable everyone? Scott will share tips on how to test and build React Native apps with accessibility baked-in!

This workshop has been presented at React Summit Remote Edition 2021, check out the latest edition of this React Conference.

FAQ

Scott Winkle's workshop focuses on creating accessible React Native apps, drawing from his experiences with Shopify's COVID Shield app and exploring techniques for testing and implementing accessibility best practices.

Scott Winkle is a platform accessibility specialist at Shopify with years of experience in web accessibility. He is active in the developer community, sharing insights and best practices on accessibility.

Digital accessibility ensures that digital content and applications can be used by people with disabilities, encompassing websites, mobile apps, desktop applications, and more. It aims to include a significant global demographic that possesses substantial disposable income.

Scott Winkle conducted accessibility testing for the COVID Shield app, a COVID-19 exposure notification solution developed by Shopify and later adopted by the Canadian government under the name COVID Alert.

Scott Winkle suggests managing focus between views in React Native apps by shifting focus to a heading when a new view loads. This approach is beneficial for screen reader users, providing them with a clear indication of the change and helping orient them within the app.

Common accessibility testing methods mentioned include using mobile screen readers like VoiceOver for iOS and TalkBack for Android, employing the macOS accessibility inspector, and testing within iOS simulators and Android emulators.

Scott Winkle refers to the React Native accessibility API, which includes methods and props to assign roles, states, and labels to interactive elements, enhancing the accessibility of apps.

The COVID Shield app is designed to provide COVID-19 exposure notifications using technologies from Apple and Google. It helps notify users about potential exposure to the virus.

Developers can make their digital products accessible by testing with assistive technologies, adhering to WCAG guidelines, and incorporating feedback from users with disabilities throughout the design and development process.

Scott Vinkle

91 min

10 Jun, 2021

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Video Summary and Transcription

This Workshop on creating accessible React Native apps covers topics such as digital accessibility, assistive technologies, testing methods for iOS and Android, the React Native Accessibility API, and issues with the API. It emphasizes the importance of understanding WCAG guidelines and meeting user expectations. The Workshop also includes a demo of the COVID Alert app, highlighting the improvements made for accessibility. Continuous education, involving people with disabilities in testing, and using tools for accessibility testing are also discussed.

Available in Español: Creando aplicaciones React Native accesibles

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