What are the differences between ARIA and HTML attributes?

What are the differences between ARIA and HTML attributes?

ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes are designed to enhance accessibility for users with disabilities, while HTML attributes are standard attributes used in HTML elements to define their behavior and properties. ARIA attributes provide additional information to assistive technologies, whereas HTML attributes are part of the core HTML specification.

Can you give me examples of ARIA attributes?

Sure! Some common ARIA attributes include aria-label, which provides an accessible name for an element, and aria-hidden, which indicates whether an element is visible to assistive technologies.

When should I use ARIA attributes instead of HTML attributes?

You should use ARIA attributes when native HTML elements do not provide the necessary accessibility features. However, it's best to use HTML attributes whenever possible, as they are more widely supported and understood by browsers and assistive technologies.

Are there any downsides to using ARIA attributes?

Yes, over-reliance on ARIA can lead to accessibility issues if not used correctly. It's important to ensure that ARIA attributes enhance rather than replace native HTML semantics.