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WCAG 2.1

1.3.4 Orientation

Level AA success criterion

Content should not restrict its view and operation to a single display orientation unless a specific orientation is essential.

Why it matters

Users with mounted devices or motor impairments may only be able to view content in one orientation. Restricting orientation creates barriers.

Common violations

  • Mobile apps that only work in portrait mode
  • Websites that force landscape orientation
  • Games that require specific orientation without good reason
  • Content that breaks when device is rotated

Code examples

Bad

<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, orientation=portrait">

Good

<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1">
<!-- Responsive CSS for both orientations -->

How to fix

Design responsive layouts that work in both portrait and landscape. Only restrict orientation when absolutely essential (e.g., piano apps, check scanning).

Related criteria

Related resources

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