WCAG 2.2: Evolution, Not Revolution
WCAG 2.2 (October 2023) adds 9 new criteria and removes 1 versus 2.1. Changes focus on mobile navigation, focus experience, and reduced cognitive load.
9 New Criteria
- Focus Not Obscured (AA): focused element not entirely hidden by other content
- Focus Not Obscured Enhanced (AAA): not at all hidden
- Focus Appearance (AA): minimum focus indicator area and contrast
- Dragging Movements (AA): drag-and-drop alternative without dragging
- Target Size Minimum (AA): 24x24px minimum click targets
- Consistent Help (A): help mechanisms in same location
- Redundant Entry (A): no re-entering previously provided information
- Accessible Authentication (AA): no cognitive tests for auth
- Accessible Authentication Enhanced (AAA): no exceptions
Removed: 4.1.1 Parsing (A)
Modern browsers handle HTML errors; assistive technologies no longer depend on syntactic validation.
Should You Migrate Now?
RGAA 4.1 (WCAG 2.1) remains the French legal reference. But WCAG 2.2 criteria are good practices to adopt now, especially Focus Appearance, Target Size, and Accessible Authentication.
WCAG 2.2 is a targeted update improving mobile accessibility, keyboard navigation, and authentication. Anticipating these criteria is a smart investment.