Overview - ISO/IEC 30113-60:2020 (Gestures for Screen Readers)
ISO/IEC 30113-60:2020 provides general guidance on gestures for screen readers used across ICT devices. It does not mandate gesture-recognition technologies but describes gesture syntax, semantics and evaluation considerations specifically for screen reader users (including people with visual impairments). The document aims to make gesture-based interfaces more accessible, learnable and consistent across platforms and assistive technologies.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard focuses on practical guidance rather than prescriptive algorithms. Important technical topics include:
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Gesture syntax
- Adjustable time windows for gestures to accommodate slower input.
- Minimize number of points of interest (POIs) required.
- Avoid complicated path-based gestures (reduce shape complexity, cusps and length).
- Avoid closed gestures (e.g., full circles) unless start/end points are effectively close.
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Gesture semantics
- Denotation: gestures should match user expectations (intuitive mapping).
- Consistency: same gestures should behave consistently across contexts and functions.
- Learnability: gestures should be easy to learn to reduce training time and errors.
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Evaluation and feedback
- Provide non‑visual feedback (audible or tactile) during recognition and on completion.
- Offer feedforward and support for customization, cultural sensitivity, and recognition tolerance.
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Common screen reader functions (examples of functions to map to gestures): reading an item under a POI, activating selected items, navigating between applications/pages/items, pausing/resuming speech, toggling a screen curtain, and launching help.
Practical applications and users
ISO/IEC 30113-60 is practical for anyone designing or testing accessible gesture-based user interfaces:
- Accessibility and UX designers creating mobile and touchscreen interfaces optimized for screen readers (VoiceOver, TalkBack, etc.).
- Screen reader and assistive technology developers implementing gesture mappings and feedback.
- Product managers, QA/test teams and usability researchers validating gesture ergonomics and learnability for users with visual impairments.
- Organizations aiming for inclusive design and cross-device consistency in gesture-based interactions.
Using this guidance helps improve accessibility, reduce recognition errors, and create more predictable, learnable gesture interactions for screen reader users.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO/IEC 30113-60, gestures for screen readers, screen reader gestures, accessibility, gesture-based interfaces, assistive technology, ICT devices, VoiceOver, TalkBack.
Open preview (PDF)Information technology — Gesture-based interfaces across devices and methods — Part 60: General guidance on gestures for screen readers
