Operable · Level AAA · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 2.5.6: Concurrent Input Mechanisms
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
At Level AAA, content does not unnecessarily restrict input methods available on the platform. People may switch between touch, pointer, keyboard and other mechanisms during the same task.
A practical example
A tablet site disables keyboard handlers after the first touch event. Keep both pathways available so a person can touch a field and then continue using a connected keyboard.
How to check it
- Use a device or setup supporting more than one input mechanism.
- Begin a task with one mechanism, switch to another and then switch back.
- Check that all available mechanisms continue to operate unless a restriction is essential, required for security or respects a user setting.
What can be missed
Detecting touch capability does not mean keyboard access is unnecessary. Avoid mutually exclusive event paths that silently disable another supported way of interacting.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.