Everyone learns differently. People use different devices, assistive technologies, and interactive methods, and they move through content at their own pace. That’s why Storyline 360 includes built-in accessibility support for 360° images, helping you create immersive experiences that more learners can use.

This article explains the accessibility features currently available for 360° images and how to use them. 

• Provide Meaningful Alt Text
• Understand Keyboard Navigation
• Explore Screen Reader Support

Provide Meaningful Alt Text

Alt text (alternative text) provides a text description of images, videos, and buttons. It helps learners who use screen readers and other assistive technologies understand the purpose and content of visual elements.

You can add alt text to media and buttons in marker and hotspot labels in a 360° interaction.

1. Select the image, video, or button in a label attached to a marker or hotspot in the 360° image.
2. Go to the Label tab on the ribbon, select Alt Text, and enter descriptive text in the dialog. (The short description defaults to the name of the media file and can be edited. The long description field is unavailable for buttons.)
3. Select OK.

Short Descriptions

Short descriptions are essential for screen reader users and are announced when learners tab to images and videos. (You can also manage short descriptions in the media library.)

Long Descriptions

Long descriptions are optional and are announced when learners interact with an image or video. Reserve long descriptions for complex visuals, such as graphs, maps, tables, or charts, when a short description isn’t enough. Leave this field blank for simple, informative images and videos.

Alt Text Tips

Use these guidelines when writing alt text.

• Describe the purpose. Focus on why the image or button is there and what happens when a learner interacts with it.
• Be concise. Aim for 150 characters or fewer.
• Avoid phrases like “image of” or “video of.” Screen readers already announce the element type.

Understand Keyboard Navigation

Learners can navigate 360° images using a keyboard. Keyboard support is built into the published output, so no additional step is required.

• Tab/Shift+Tab: Move focus between interactive elements such as markers and hotspots. Use Shift+Tab to move in reverse order.
• W, A, S, D Keys: Change the camera angle within the 360° image.
  • W moves up, A moves left, S moves down, D moves right
  • Note: These keys work on both QWERTY and non-QWERTY keyboards and can’t be changed at this time. NVDA screen reader users can use NVDA navigation keys, such as the Up and Down arrow keys, to move around the image.
• Enter or Spacebar: Activate the selected marker or hotspot.
• Esc: Close an open marker or hotspot label.

Explore Screen Reader Support

360° images support screen readers,  allowing learners with visual disabilities to explore interactions and understand their progress.

When a screen reader encounters a 360° image, it announces:

• The alt text for the 360° image, if provided
• The navigation mode (free navigation or guided tour)
• Learner progress, including how many interactive elements are available and how many have been visited
• Instructions for moving the camera angle
• Instructions for interacting with markers and hotspots