Ally.io
FreeSimplify accessibility in JavaScript applications.
FreeFree tier
About Ally.io
ally.js is a JavaScript library that simplifies accessibility features, functions, and behaviors. It provides standard functions that the web platform should have provided, making JavaScript applications more accessible. The library focuses on focus management, keyboard navigation, DOM querying for focusable elements, focus trapping, inert subtrees, ShadowDOM focus detection, :focus-within polyfill, and detecting focus changes. It has been tested on IE9+, Firefox, Chrome, Safari 9, Mobile Chrome on Android 5.1, and Safari for iOS 9. While ally.js provides essential helpers, it does not automatically make a web application accessible; developers must use it correctly.
Key Features
Identify and absorb browser differences for focusable elements
Query DOM for all focusable or tabbable (keyboard focusable) elements
Trap focus navigation in a DOM sub-tree
Make DOM sub-trees inert (disable focus and interaction)
Identify focused elements and focus changes within ShadowDOM
Provide :focus-within CSS Selectors Level 4 polyfill
Determine how focus changed (keyboard, mouse, script) for different focus outline styles
Determine when an element is focusable and visible in viewport to prevent scrolling on focus
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Simplifies complex accessibility tasks related to focus and keyboard interaction
- Provides standard functions that the web platform should have provided natively
- Tested across multiple browsers including older IE versions
- Free and open source
- Helps developers achieve WCAG compliance for focus handling
Cons
- Does not automatically make a web application fully accessible; requires proper usage
- Only addresses focus and keyboard-related aspects, not all accessibility concerns
- Requires understanding of accessibility concepts to use effectively
Best For
Building accessible modal dialogs and menusImproving keyboard navigation in single-page applicationsManaging focus in dynamic web componentsEnforcing focus trapping in interactive elementsEnsuring WCAG 2.1 compliance for focus management
FAQ
What is ally.js?
ally.js is a JavaScript library that simplifies accessibility features, particularly focus management and keyboard navigation in web applications.
Which browsers are supported?
ally.js has been tested on IE9+, Firefox, Chrome, Safari 9, Mobile Chrome on Android 5.1, and Safari for iOS 9.
Does ally.js automatically make a web app accessible?
No, simply loading ally.js will not automatically make a web application accessible. It provides helper functions to make the process easier, but developers must implement them correctly.
What are some key features of ally.js?
ally.js provides functions to identify focusable elements, trap focus, create inert subtrees, detect focus changes, and polyfill the :focus-within CSS selector.
Is ally.js free to use?
Yes, ally.js is free and open source.