Combobox
This component allows users to select from a list of options. It’s especially useful when there are many options to choose from.
import { ... } from '@ag.ds-next/react/combobox';Learn more about how to meet WCAG success criteria when implementing comboboxes. This makes them accessible and inclusive for users of all abilities and situations.
The combobox component passed accessibility testing in 2024.
Clear labels and instructions
Requirements
- Labels clearly identify the purpose of the combobox.
- The purpose of the combobox is understood and conveyed by assistive technologies.
- Hint text is provided when it’s helpful – for example, let users know they can type to see results.
Benefits
- Assistive technology users have equal access to labels and instructions.
- Helps all users avoid submitting an incomplete or incorrect form.
- Reduces the cognitive load for all users.
- Makes filling in forms easier for people with cognitive and learning disabilities.
- Clear labelling supports users with English as a second language.
WCAG references
- Understanding success criterion 1.3.5 Identify input purpose
- Understanding success criterion 3.3.2 Labels or instructions
Error identification
Requirements
- Input errors are detected and communicated to the user – for example, required data not entered.
- Error messages are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
- Error messages clearly identify the error.
- Error messages provide sufficient information for users to locate and fix the problem.
- Error messages are understood and conveyed by assistive technology.
Benefits
- Assistive technology users have equal access to error messages.
- Reduces user frustration by clearly explaining what went wrong.
- Helps users with cognitive disabilities understand and fix problems.
- Saves time by preventing repeated unsuccessful attempts.
- Enables users to solve errors themselves without having to contact tech support.
WCAG references
Error prevention
Requirements
- Hint text is provided when it’s helpful.
- Labels and hint text are clear and succinct.
- Users can check, reverse or confirm their input on forms with legal commitments, financial transactions or data modifications.
Benefits
- Clear guidance reduces anxiety about making mistakes.
- Helps users understand requirements.
- Saves time by preventing repeated incorrect input.
- Particularly valuable for users with cognitive or motor impairments.
- Provides safeguards against critical errors with significant consequences.
WCAG references
- Understanding success criterion 3.3.2 Labels or instructions
- Understanding success criterion 3.3.4 Error prevention (legal, financial, data)
Name, role, value
Requirements
- All form components have appropriate names, roles and values that are understood and conveyed by assistive technology.
- Clear label identifying the combobox.
- ARIA roles and states where needed – for example,
aria-invalid,aria-required.
Benefits
- Assistive technology users have equal access to information about the purpose and state of the component.
- Improves usability for voice control software users.
- Helps users with cognitive challenges understand component functionality.
- Makes automation and testing more reliable.