Building More Inclusive and Accessible Mobile Apps: Lessons from My React Native Journey

When I first started developing mobile apps with React Native, accessibility wasn't my top priority. Like many developers, I focused on functionality, UI design, and performance. But as I gained experience, I realized that an app is only truly successful if everyone can use it, regardless of their abilities. Over time, I learned through trial and error how to make my applications more inclusive and accessible. In this post, I want to share the key accessibility principles I’ve learned and how they can help create a better experience for all users. Accessibility is not just about compliance with WCAG guidelines—it’s about giving everyone the opportunity to interact with our apps. 1. Screen Reader Compatibility One of the first things I learned was how crucial it is to make apps compatible with screen readers like VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android). These tools enable visually impaired users to navigate apps through audio cues. ✅ What I do now: Add accessibilityLabel to important UI elements. Use accessibilityRole to clarify an element’s function. Example in React Native:

Feb 12, 2025 - 21:36

Building More Inclusive and Accessible Mobile Apps: Lessons from My React Native Journey

When I first started developing mobile apps with React Native, accessibility wasn't my top priority. Like many developers, I focused on functionality, UI design, and performance. But as I gained experience, I realized that an app is only truly successful if everyone can use it, regardless of their abilities. Over time, I learned through trial and error how to make my applications more inclusive and accessible.

In this post, I want to share the key accessibility principles I’ve learned and how they can help create a better experience for all users. Accessibility is not just about compliance with WCAG guidelines—it’s about giving everyone the opportunity to interact with our apps.

1. Screen Reader Compatibility

One of the first things I learned was how crucial it is to make apps compatible with screen readers like VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android). These tools enable visually impaired users to navigate apps through audio cues.

✅ What I do now:

Add accessibilityLabel to important UI elements.
Use accessibilityRole to clarify an element’s function.

Example in React Native: