PMs, It’s time to audit your TV login experience
- Alicia Jarvis
- Oct 27
- 3 min read
Updated: 2d
Logging in should be simple — but on TV, it’s often where accessibility breaks down. Between on-screen keyboards, pairing codes, and multi-step authentication, it’s easy for users with disabilities to hit a wall before they even reach your content.
An accessibility audit of your login flow helps you find and fix these barriers early, before frustration (and churn) set in.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
1. Start with the user journey, not the screen
Before diving into code or design, walk through the entire login journey:
Launch the app → Reach the login screen → Authenticate → Land on home screen
Ask:
How many actions does this take?
Can someone complete each step using only a remote, only voice, or only screen reader gestures?
Does focus always land where users expect?
This high-level view helps you identify patterns — like modal pop-ups that trap focus, or inconsistent input methods across devices.
2. Check focus management
This is where most TV login flows fail.
Audit checklist:
Each interactive element (buttons, fields, toggles) has a clear visual focus indicator.
Focus moves predictably when navigating with arrow keys or D-pad.
The on-screen keyboard doesn’t steal focus or trap the user.
When dialogs appear (e.g., “Invalid password”), focus automatically moves to them — and returns to the right element afterward.
Quick Fix: If focus gets stuck, define nextFocusUp, nextFocusDown, and nextFocusRight/Left in your layout.
3. Test text alternatives and labels
Users relying on screen readers (TalkBack, VoiceView, etc.) need accurate and concise labels.
Check for:
Editable fields have visible descriptive labels (e.g., “Email address,” not “Text field”).
Buttons and icons include accessible names (android:contentDescription on Android TV).
Error messages are announced automatically — not buried visually.
Tip: Use the “Explore by Touch” mode in TalkBack to confirm all labels are read correctly and in logical order.
4. Validate colour, contrast, and readability
Login screens often include brand-heavy visuals — but accessibility can’t stop at aesthetics.
Ensure:
Text and focus states meet WCAG 2.2 AA contrast ratios.
The on-screen keyboard and code entry fields are large enough to read from a distance.
Timed elements (like pairing codes) allow enough time to read or extend.
Try stepping back 10 feet from the screen — if it’s hard for you to see, it’s harder for low-vision users.
5. Evaluate alternative authentication options
Typing credentials with a remote is painful for everyone. Offer and test accessible alternatives:
Pairing codes or QR login (but ensure the instructions are read aloud and visible).
Voice login (where available).
Saved credentials through system-level sign-in.
Confirm that every alternative login method is fully operable by assistive technologies — not just touch or mobile.
6. Involve real users
Even a technically perfect flow can miss practical barriers.Include users with disabilities in testing — especially those using remotes, switch controls, or screen readers.
You’ll gain insights you can’t get from automation tools.
Wrap-up: your TV login audit toolkit
Here’s a quick recap checklist:
Focus: Predictable order, visible indicators, no traps
Labels: Accurate names, announced errors
Colour Contrast: Meets WCAG 2.2 AA, readable from 10 ft
Input: Keyboard accessible, alternative methods work\
Timing: Sufficient duration for reading/interacting
User Testing: Include real assistive tech users
Why it matters
A smooth, accessible login experience isn’t just compliance — it’s retention. If users can’t log in independently, they’ll switch apps long before your content can impress them.
Accessibility here sets the tone for everything that follows.
Try this in your next QA cycle: Run your login flow using only a remote and TalkBack.If you can complete it without getting stuck, your users can too.
If not, you’ve found your next backlog item.
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