Test VoiceOver in manual iOS sessions

Overview

Test accessibility on iOS devices during a manual session using VoiceOver.

Prerequisites

Before using VoiceOver in a manual session, ensure the following requirements are met:

  • A private iOS device that supports a Bluetooth keyboard

  • The iOS device must operate in Lightning mode to support audio output during manual testing sessions.

Audio output during VoiceOver testing is supported only on devices configured with Bluetooth keyboard access.

Using VoiceOver During a Manual Session

When a manual session is active:

  • The Screen Reader icon is selectable in the left toolbar

  • Selecting the icon opens a floating Screen Reader modal

Screenshot of the Screen Reader modal

From the Screen Reader modal, users can:

  • Turn VoiceOver mode on or off using the toggle

  • Select a gesture or command to perform the corresponding action on the device screen

  • Listen to VoiceOver output while navigating and interacting with the device

For a complete list of supported gestures, see VoiceOver gestures and shortcuts.

Each gesture or command includes:

  • A supporting description explaining its behavior

  • A keyboard shortcut displayed in the modal

While VoiceOver mode is enabled:

  • Other toolbar tools remain available

  • The device screen can still be interacted with normally

  • VoiceOver gestures supplement, rather than replace, standard interaction

Review VoiceOver Activity

VoiceOver actions are recorded in Session Explorer.

Screen reader accessibility events are labeled as VOICEOVER in the session timeline. This allows you to review navigation behavior alongside screenshots and other test actions.

Session timeline showing recorded VoiceOver gestures and screen reader accessibility events