Enhancing Accessibility

  • The Maps SDK for Android has built-in accessibility features automatically enabled for applications using the API.

  • TalkBack allows users to navigate the map interface by swiping or dragging a finger, announcing UI elements as they come into focus, and performing actions with a double-tap.

  • Developers should consider adding a map description announcement using setContentDescription() for improved accessibility.

  • Further accessibility guidance can be found in the Android accessibility documentation.

When users enable the TalkBack accessibility feature on their mobile devices, each single swipe across the screen moves the focus from one UI element to the next. (An alternative to single swiping is to explore UI elements by dragging a finger over the interface.) As a UI element comes into focus, TalkBack reads out the name of the element. If the user double-taps anywhere on the screen, the focused action is performed.

For guidance on enhancing the accessibility of your Android app, refer to the Android accessibility documentation. In particular, it's good practice to add an announcement describing the map. To specify the text of the announcement, call setContentDescription() on the view.