ARIA Attributes
ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) Attributes are a set of HTML attributes that define ways to make web content and applications more accessible to people with disabilities, particularly for dynamic content and complex user interfaces. They provide semantic information to assistive technologies like screen readers, enabling them to interpret and navigate elements that standard HTML cannot adequately describe. ARIA attributes are part of the WAI-ARIA specification developed by the W3C to enhance web accessibility.
Developers should learn and use ARIA attributes when building interactive web applications with JavaScript frameworks (e.g., React, Angular) or custom widgets that lack native HTML accessibility support, such as modals, tabs, or drag-and-drop interfaces. They are essential for compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and legal requirements in many regions, ensuring inclusivity and improving user experience for all audiences. Use cases include adding roles, states, and properties to elements to convey their purpose and behavior to assistive technologies.