Accessibility: Search success is difficult to detect when using assistive technologies

Browser : Chrome 136
OS : macOS

We are testing this with “Filter - Search”. WCAG 2.4.3 Focus Order.

When a search is performed by pressing Enter in the search field, the focus remains on the search input field. If a user navigates the website using a screen reader without visual context, no information is conveyed to the user about the search success unless the user specifically explores the page with their assistive technology.

This creates a poor user experience for users relying on screen readers, as they cannot easily determine if their search was successful or if results are available.

Expected Behavior

After performing a search, the focus should move to the beginning of the search results to clearly indicate that the search has been completed and results are available.

Current Behavior

Focus remains on the search input field after search execution, providing no indication to screen reader users that the search has been completed or that results are displayed.

Recommended Solution

Move the focus to the start of the search results when a search is performed. This will provide immediate feedback to assistive technology users about the search completion and result availability. Or/and give us way to control what to focus after search is performed.

1 Like

Also it is okay to focus “Query Results Summary” element after search is done with enter since this confirms search results for screenreader.