ios-hig

--- name: ios-hig description: Use when designing iOS interfaces, implementing accessibility (VoiceOver, Dynamic Type), handling dark mode, ensuring adequate touch targets, providing animation/haptic feedback, or requesting user permissions. Apple Human Interface Guidelines for iOS compliance. --- # iOS Human Interface Guidelines Apple's Human Interface Guidelines define the visual language, interaction patterns, and accessibility standards that make iOS apps feel native and intuitive. The core principle: clarity and consistency through thoughtful design. ## Reference Loading Guide **ALWAYS load reference files if there is even a small chance the content may be required.** It's better to have the context than to miss a pattern or make a mistake. | Reference | Load When | |-----------|-----------| | **[Interaction](references/interaction.md)** | Touch targets, navigation, layout, hierarchy, or gesture patterns | | **[Content](references/content.md)** | Empty states, writing copy, typography, or placeholder text | | **[Visual Design](references/visual-design.md)** | Colors, materials, contrast, dark mode, or SF Symbols | | **[Accessibility](references/accessibility.md)** | VoiceOver, Dynamic Type, Reduce Motion, or accessibility labels | | **[Feedback](references/feedback.md)** | Animations, haptics, loading states, or error messages | | **[Performance](references/performance-platform.md)** | Responsiveness, system components, or app launch | | **[Privacy](references/privacy-permissions.md)** | Permission requests, data handling, or privacy-sensitive APIs | ## Common Mistakes 1. **Touch targets smaller than 44x44 points** — Buttons and interactive elements must be at least 44x44 points (iOS) to accommodate thumbs. Smaller targets cause frustrated users and accessibility failures. 2. **Ignoring Dynamic Type constraints** — Text with fixed sizes doesn't respect user accessibility settings. Use Dynamic Type sizes, test with Large or Extra Large settings, and avoid hardcoded font sizes. 3. **Insufficient color contrast in dark mode** — Colors that work in light mode may fail accessibility in dark mode. Test with Reduce Contrast accessibility setting enabled for both modes. 4. **Over-animating transitions** — Animations that feel smooth at 60fps can trigger motion sickness in users with vestibular issues. Respect Reduce Motion settings and keep animations under 300ms. 5. **Missing VoiceOver labels on custom controls** — Custom buttons, toggles, or interactive views need `.accessibilityLabel()` and `.accessibilityHint()` or they're completely unusable to screen reader users. 6. **Haptic overuse** — Every action does NOT need haptic feedback. Reserve haptics for confirmations (purchase, critical action) and errors. Excessive haptics are annoying and drain battery.