Focus Indicator Tool

Overview

The Focus Indicator tool enhances keyboard navigation by providing clear, high-contrast visual indicators for focused elements. It replaces subtle browser default focus indicators with prominent focus outlines that are easily visible to all users.

Features

• Enhanced Visibility: High-contrast blue focus indicators that stand out on any background
• Universal Coverage: Applies to all focusable elements including links, buttons, and form controls
• WCAG Compliant: Meets accessibility guidelines for focus indicator visibility
• Dark Mode Support: Automatically adjusts colors for dark mode environments
• Keyboard Navigation: Essential for users who navigate with keyboard or assistive devices

Settings

Level	Description
Disabled	Browser default focus indicators
Enabled	Enhanced high-contrast blue focus indicators with improved visibility

Usage

1. Click the Focus Indicator button in the accessibility toolbar
2. Enhanced focus indicators are immediately applied to all focusable elements
3. Use Tab key to navigate and see the improved focus visibility
4. Click the button again to return to browser default indicators

Accessibility Benefits

• Keyboard Navigation: Essential for users who cannot use a mouse
• Visual Clarity: Makes focused elements clearly visible on any background
• Motor Impairments: Helps users with limited motor control identify current focus
• Cognitive Support: Reduces confusion about which element is currently selected
• Screen Reader Users: Provides visual confirmation for sighted screen reader users
• Low Vision: High contrast indicators are easier to see for users with visual impairments

Focus Styles

Enhanced Indicators

• Blue Outline: 3px solid blue (#2196f3) outline for high visibility
• Outline Offset: 3px offset from element for clear separation
• Shadow Effect: Blue shadow (rgba(33, 150, 243, 0.4)) for additional emphasis
• Dark Mode: Light blue (#90caf9) outline and shadow for dark themes

Element Coverage

• Links: Text links and navigation elements
• Buttons: All button types and interactive controls
• Form Fields: Input fields, textareas, and select boxes
• Custom Elements: Interactive components and widgets

Technical Implementation

The tool applies CSS classes to the HTML element using !important declarations to override existing focus styles:

• Light Mode: Blue outline (#2196f3) with matching shadow
• Dark Mode: Light blue outline (#90caf9) with matching shadow
• Consistent Application: All focusable elements receive the same styling

API Usage Example

The Focus Indicator tool can be programmatically controlled using the widget API:

// Enable the focus indicator tool
window.BrowseAidWidget.api.enableTool('focus-indicator');

// Toggle the tool on/off
const isEnabled = window.BrowseAidWidget.api.toggleTool('focus-indicator');
console.log('Focus Indicator is now:', isEnabled ? 'enabled' : 'disabled');

// Get current settings
const settings = window.BrowseAidWidget.api.getToolState('focus-indicator');
console.log('Current Focus Indicator settings:', settings);

// Disable the tool
window.BrowseAidWidget.api.disableTool('focus-indicator');

// Listen for tool changes
const unsubscribe = window.BrowseAidWidget.api.onToolChange((toolName, settings) => {
  if (toolName === 'focus-indicator') {
    console.log('Focus Indicator settings changed:', settings);
  }
});

Configuration Options

Option	Type	Values	Default	Description
enabled	boolean	true/false	false	Enables or disables the tool

Current Implementation Notes

The Focus Indicator tool currently provides:

• Fixed Styling: Predefined blue focus indicators that cannot be customized
• Binary Control: Simple enable/disable functionality
• Automatic Dark Mode: Adjusts colors based on dark mode setting
• Universal Application: Applies to all focusable elements consistently

Future versions may include customization options for color, thickness, and style preferences.