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API Testing with Playwright: A Comprehensive Guide

by Chris Adams | Mar 2, 2025 | API Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 0 comments

Playwright is widely known for browser automation, it also offers powerful features for API testing, making it a versatile tool for end-to-end testing. By using Playwright, testers can efficiently validate API endpoints, perform authentication checks, and seamlessly integrate API tests with UI tests to ensure consistent functionality across the entire application. API testing with Playwright allows for the testing of various HTTP methods, including GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE requests, enabling comprehensive validation of data flow and business logic. Additionally, Playwright supports handling complex authentication scenarios, such as token-based and OAuth authentication. This guide will explain why Playwright is an excellent choice for API testing, how to set it up and provide detailed examples of requests, authentication handling, and best practices for effective and efficient API testing.

Basics of API Testing

API testing checks if different software systems can communicate and exchange data correctly. It ensures functionality, security, and performance while being faster and easier to automate than UI testing. Unlike UI testing, which focuses on visual elements, API testing verifies the backend logic using requests like GET and POST. It also differs from unit testing, which tests individual functions, and integration testing, which checks how system parts work together.

Why Choose Playwright for API Testing?

API testing is a crucial aspect of software testing, ensuring that backend services function correctly before integrating them with the UI. Several tools are available for API testing, each offering unique features suited to different testing needs:

Postman – A widely used API testing tool with a graphical interface for sending requests and validating responses.
RestAssured – A Java-based API testing framework commonly used for automated API validation.
SoapUI – A dedicated tool for testing SOAP and REST APIs, offering advanced features for functional and security testing.
SuperTest – A JavaScript library designed for testing HTTP APIs, particularly useful in Node.js applications.
Cypress – Primarily a UI testing framework that also includes basic API testing capabilities.

Then why should we use Playwright for API testing? It allows users to make API requests, validate responses, and integrate API checks within automated test scripts. It provides features like APIRequestContext for direct API interactions, built-in authentication handling, and cross-browser support, making it a versatile option for teams looking to perform both API and UI testing within the same environment. Like other tools, Playwright offers a structured approach to API testing, enabling efficient validation of backend services. Now let’s take a deeper look at all the key features.

Key Features of Playwright That Enhance API Testing

1. Built-in APIRequestContext for Simplified API Testing

Playwright provides APIRequestContext, allowing testers to make API calls directly within test scripts without needing external libraries like Axios or SuperTest.

Example: GET Request with Playwright


import { test, expect, request } from '@playwright/test';

test('Validate GET request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.get('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/1');
    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);

    const responseBody = await response.json();
    expect(responseBody.id).toBe(1);
});

Why Playwright? Unlike Postman (which is UI-based) and RestAssured (which requires Java), Playwright allows API requests directly within the test automation framework with minimal setup.

2. Seamless Integration of API & UI Testing

Unlike Postman, RestAssured, and SoapUI, which focus only on API testing, Playwright enables UI and API tests to run in the same framework. This is useful for:

Setting up test data via API before UI tests.
Validating API responses against UI elements.
Testing UI interactions that trigger API calls.

Example: API and UI Test Together


test('Create user via API and validate on UI', async ({ page, request }) => {
    const response = await request.post('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/users', {
        data: { name: 'John Doe', email: '[email protected]' }
    });

    expect(response.status()).toBe(201);
    const user = await response.json();

    await page.goto('https://example.com/users');
    const userExists = await page.locator(`text=${user.name}`).isVisible();
    expect(userExists).toBeTruthy();
});

3. JavaScript/TypeScript Support for Modern Development

Playwright is built for JavaScript and TypeScript, making it ideal for teams using modern web frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue.js.

Comparison with Other Tools:

S. No	Tool	Language Support	Best For
1	Playwright	JavaScript/TypeScript	API + UI Testing
2	Postman	GUI-based (No coding required)	Manual API Testing
3	RestAssured	Java	Backend API Testing
4	SoapUI	Java & Groovy	SOAP & REST API Testing
5	SuperTest	JavaScript	Node.js API Testing

Why Playwright? Teams using JavaScript for frontend development can now write API tests in the same language, improving efficiency and collaboration.

4. Cross-Browser & Cross-Platform API Testing

Unlike most API testing tools that only test API responses, Playwright supports cross-browser validation, ensuring that API responses work correctly with different browsers.

Example: API Test Across Browsers


import { test, expect, request } from '@playwright/test';

test('Validate API response in different browsers', async ({ browser }) => {
    const context = await browser.newContext();
    const request = context.request;
    const response = await request.get('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/1');
    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);
});

Why Playwright?

Postman, RestAssured, and SoapUI cannot test how APIs behave across different browsers.
Playwright ensures API + UI compatibility across Chromium, Firefox, and WebKit (Safari).

5. CI/CD Integration for Automated API Testing

Playwright works seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines, allowing automated API testing in:

Jenkins
GitHub Actions
GitLab CI/CD

Example: Running Playwright API Tests in GitHub Actions


name: Playwright API Tests
on: push

jobs:
  test:
    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
    steps:
      - name: Checkout code
        uses: actions/checkout@v2
      
      - name: Install dependencies
        run: npm install
      
      - name: Run API Tests
        run: npx playwright test api-tests

Why Playwright? Unlike Postman, which requires Newman for automation, Playwright runs API tests directly in CI/CD pipelines without additional setup.

Guide to Writing tour First API Test with Playwright

To get started with API Testing with Playwright, install Playwright using npm:


npm init -y
npm install @playwright/test

Ensure that Playwright is installed by running:


npx playwright install

Writing Your First API Test with Playwright

You can use APIRequestContext to interact with APIs. Below is a simple GET request example:


import { test, expect, request } from '@playwright/test';

test('Validate GET request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.get('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/1');
    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);

    const responseBody = await response.json();
    expect(responseBody.id).toBe(1);
});

Breaking Down the Code:

Import Playwright functions: test, expect, and request are used for API testing.
Make a GET request: request.get() fetches data from the API.
Validate the response status: Ensures the request was successful (200 OK).
Parse and validate response body: Converts the response to JSON and checks if the expected data is returned.

Making Different API Requests

1. POST Request (Creating a Resource)


test('Validate POST request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.post('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts', {
        data: {
            title: 'Playwright API Test',
            body: 'This is a test post',
            userId: 1
        }
    });

    expect(response.status()).toBe(201);
    const responseBody = await response.json();
    expect(responseBody.title).toBe('Playwright API Test');
});

Sends a POST request to create a new resource.
Validates response status (201 Created) to confirm successful creation.
Ensures response data matches the expected values.

2. PUT Request (Updating a Resource)


test('Validate PUT request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.put('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/1', {
        data: {
            id: 1,
            title: 'Updated Title',
            body: 'Updated content',
            userId: 1
        }
    });

    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);
    const responseBody = await response.json();
    expect(responseBody.title).toBe('Updated Title');
});

Sends a PUT request to update an existing resource.
Validates status code (200 OK) for successful updates.
Confirms that the updated title matches the expected value.

3. DELETE Request (Removing a Resource)


test('Validate DELETE request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.delete('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/1');
    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);
});

Sends a DELETE request to remove an existing resource.
Checks if the API returns a successful deletion status (200 OK or 204 No Content).

Handling Authentication in API Testing

For APIs requiring authentication, Playwright supports passing headers and cookies for authorization.


test('Validate Authenticated Request', async ({ request }) => {
    const response = await request.get('https://example.com/protected', {
        headers: {
            Authorization: 'Bearer YOUR_ACCESS_TOKEN'
        }
    });

    expect(response.status()).toBe(200);
});

Includes Authorization Header: Uses a Bearer token for authentication.
Validates Authentication: Ensures the API allows access (200 OK).

Best Practices for API Testing with Playwright

To ensure efficient and maintainable API testing with Playwright, it is important to follow structured practices that enhance test reliability, performance, and organization. By properly structuring test suites, managing dependencies, and optimizing execution, teams can achieve faster, more scalable, and maintainable API tests. Below are some key best practices to maximize efficiency:

Use Fixtures – Helps maintain test reusability and efficiency by providing a structured way to set up and share test data across multiple tests.
Validate Response Schema – Use schema validation tools like Ajv to ensure API responses follow the expected structure, reducing inconsistencies.
Use Environment Variables – Store API URLs, authentication tokens, and sensitive data securely using environment variables to enhance security and flexibility.
Enable Logging – Capture and log API responses to debug test failures efficiently, making troubleshooting easier.
Run Tests in Parallel – Speed up execution using Playwright’s parallel test execution feature, optimizing test suite performance.

Conclusion

As seen in our blog, Playwright is a powerful tool for both UI automation and API testing, offering seamless integration of API and UI tests within a single framework. With features like built-in request handling, authentication management, parallel execution, and cross-browser compatibility, it simplifies API testing while improving efficiency and reliability. By using Playwright, teams can reduce execution time, automate authentication, organize test suites efficiently, and improve debugging with logging and structured test cases.

For businesses looking to enhance their API testing strategy, Codoid, a leader in software testing services, provides expert API automation solutions. With extensive experience in Playwright, Selenium, and other frameworks, Codoid helps organizations optimize testing processes, improve test coverage, and ensure smooth digital experiences. By adopting Playwright and partnering with Codoid, teams can build a scalable, efficient, and future-ready test automation strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use Playwright for API testing instead of Postman or RestAssured?

Unlike Postman (UI-based) and RestAssured (Java-dependent), Playwright enables API and UI testing within the same framework, supports JavaScript/TypeScript, and integrates easily into CI/CD pipelines.
Can Playwright handle authentication in API testing?

Yes, Playwright supports authentication methods like Bearer Tokens, OAuth, and Cookies to test secured API endpoints.
Does Playwright support API schema validation?

While Playwright does not have built-in schema validation, you can integrate it with Ajv or Joi to validate API responses.
How does Playwright compare with Cypress for API testing?

- Playwright supports multi-browser testing (Chrome, Firefox, Safari), while Cypress is limited to Chromium-based browsers.
- Playwright enables parallel execution and has better API handling than Cypress.
What are some real-time applications of Playwright API testing?

- E-commerce: Validate product APIs and order processing.
- Banking: Test authentication and transaction APIs.
- Healthcare: Ensure secure data exchange in patient records.
- SaaS applications: Automate API requests in multi-tenant platforms.

ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool Tutorial

by Chris Adams | Feb 27, 2025 | Accessibility Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 0 comments

Web accessibility testing tools help developers and testers identify and fix barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing online content. One such powerful yet simple tool is ANDI (Accessible Name & Description Inspector).Developed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), ANDI Accessibility testing Tool is a free and lightweight browser extension designed to help web developers improve accessibility. It provides real-time insights into common accessibility issues, assisting developers to ensure compliance with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and Section 508 standards.Suppose you are new to accessibility testing or looking for an efficient way to improve your website’s compliance. In that case, this guide will walk you through everything from ANDI’s history and installation to performing detailed accessibility checks.

History of ANDI and Its Inventor

ANDI was developed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a U.S. government agency responsible for social security programs. Recognizing the importance of digital accessibility, SSA created ANDI to help developers and testers easily identify and correct accessibility issues without requiring advanced expertise. Unlike many commercial accessibility tools, ANDI was designed to be free, easy to use, and lightweight. Since its launch, it has become a widely adopted tool among government agencies, developers, and accessibility testers who need a quick and reliable way to check for compliance with WCAG and Section 508 guidelines.

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Key Features of ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool:

Identifies missing or incorrect ARIA attributes
Analyzes focusable elements for screen reader compatibility
Checks HTML structure and semantic elements
Detects issues with links, buttons, and form fields
Highlights contrast issues for better readability
Ensures compliance with WCAG and Section 508

By using ANDI, developers and testers can quickly pinpoint accessibility issues and make necessary improvements without modifying the original webpage.

TalkBack Accessibility Testing: Expert Tips

Compatible Browsers for ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

ANDI is designed to work without installation as a simple bookmarklet. It is compatible with the following browsers:

Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based)
Mozilla Firefox
Internet Explorer (limited support)

Note: Safari does not natively support JavaScript bookmarklets, so manual setup is required.

How to Install ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

ANDI is a browser-based accessibility testing tool that runs as a bookmarklet—meaning it does not require a separate software installation. Instead, it is activated by adding a JavaScript snippet to your browser’s bookmarks bar.

Installation Instructions for Different Browsers

For Google Chrome & Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based browsers):

1.Enable the Bookmarks Bar

Press Ctrl + Shift + B to make the bookmarks bar visible.

2. Drag and drop the ANDI tool

3. Activate ANDI

Whenever you need to test a webpage, click on the ANDI bookmarklet from your bookmarks bar.

For Mozilla Firefox:

1. Enable the Bookmarks Toolbar

Press Alt + V, go to Toolbars and enable Bookmarks Toolbar.

2. Add ANDI as a Bookmark

Right-click on this ANDI Tool Link and select “Bookmark This Link.”
Name the bookmark ANDI and ensure it is saved in the Bookmarks Toolbar.

3. Activate ANDI

Click the ANDI bookmark whenever you want to run the accessibility test.

For Internet Explorer:

1. Enable the Favorites Bar

Press Alt + V, go to Toolbars, and enable Favorites Bar.

2. Add ANDI as a Favorite

Right-click on this ANDI Tool Link and select “Add to Favorites Bar.”

3. Activate ANDI

Click the ANDI bookmark whenever you need to analyze a webpage.

For Safari (Manual Setup Required):

Safari does not fully support JavaScript bookmarklets in the same way as other browsers.
You may need to manually add and run the ANDI script from the browser’s developer console.
Manual Steps:

1. Open the Developer Console in Safari

Press Cmd + Option + I (Mac) or Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows) to open the Developer Tools in Safari.
Alternatively, you can right-click anywhere on the webpage and select Inspect Element to open the Developer Tools.

2. Go to the “Console” Tab

In the Developer Tools window, click on the Console tab where you can execute JavaScript.

3. Add the ANDI Script Manually

First, go to the ANDI website or locate the script source. You need to copy the JavaScript code that runs the ANDI tool.
Here’s a basic script you can use to run ANDI on a webpage:


(function() {
    var script = document.createElement('script');
    script.src = 'https://www.andiapp.com/andi.js';
    script.onload = function() {
        ANDI.launch(); // Launch the ANDI tool once the script is loaded
    };
    document.head.appendChild(script);
})();

4. Paste and Execute the Script

Copy the code above and paste it into the Console tab in Developer Tools.
Press Enter to run the script.

5. Access the ANDI Tool

After executing the script, the ANDI tool should automatically load on the page, and you can start inspecting accessibility issues.
If the script is successfully loaded, you should see the ANDI interface on the page.

How to Use ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

Once installed, ANDI can quickly scan a webpage and provide insights on accessibility issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Step 1: Activate ANDI on a Webpage

1. Open the webpage you want to test.

2. Click on the ANDI bookmarklet from your browser’s bookmarks bar.

3. ANDI will scan the page and overlay accessibility information, highlighting potential issues.

Step 2: Analyze Accessibility Elements

Use the preview buttons “<" (Backward element) or ">” (Forward element) to analyze the accessibility elements.

ANDI categorizes issues into different sections:

Headings & Structure

Ensures proper heading hierarchy (h1 → h6) to help screen readers.
Example Issue: Missing h1 on a webpage.
Fix: Add h1 Main Heading /h1 to define the page structure properly.

Links & Buttons

Check if links and buttons have clear, accessible labels.
Example Issue: An empty without a label.
Fix: Add a Link or descriptive text:

<a href="www.apple.com">Buy</a>

Images & Alternative Text

Ensures that all images have meaningful alt text for screen readers.
Example Issue:img src=”iphone16promax.png” – (No alt attribute is provided.)
Fix: Add an alt attribute: img src=”iphone16promax.png” alt=”iPhone 16 Pro Max, all four finishes, Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium and Desert Titanium.

Color Contrast & Readability

Ensures text has a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 for readability.
Example Issue: Light grey text on a white background.
Fix: Adjust the text color or background to improve contrast.

Keyboard Navigation & Focus Order

Ensures interactive elements are accessible using the Tab key.
Example Issue: A ‘div’ styled as a button that is not keyboard-accessible.
Fix: Use a ‘button’ element or add tabindex=”0″ to make it focusable.

Step 3: Review ANDI’s Recommendations

Click on highlighted elements for detailed accessibility reports.
Modify your HTML, CSS, or ARIA attributes based on ANDI’s suggestions.
Re-run ANDI to verify fixes and improvements.

A VoiceOver Quick Reference Guide with Keyboard Shortcuts & Gestures

Example Scenarios & How ANDI Helps

S. No	Issue	Description	Solution
1	Missing alt text	Images lack descriptive alternative text.	Add meaningful alt attributes.
2	Poor keyboard navigation	Users cannot navigate with Tab key.	Ensure all interactive elements are focusable.
3	Incorrect heading structure	Headings are skipped or not sequential.	Use proper h1 to h6 tags.
4	Low color contrast	Text is hard to read.	Use accessible contrast ratios (4.5:1 or higher).
5	Missing form labels	Form fields have no associated labels.	Use ‘label’ elements with for attributes.

Why Use ANDI for Accessibility Testing?

ANDI is a preferred tool for accessibility testing due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Here are some reasons why developers and testers rely on it:

Free & Easy to Use – No complex setup or licensing required.
Works in the Browser – No separate software installation needed; runs directly in Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.
Detailed Insights – Provides in-depth accessibility reports and suggestions.
Non-Disruptive Testing – Runs without altering the webpage’s original code.
Lightweight & Fast – Does not slow down the webpage or require heavy system resources.

Unlike many automated tools that simply provide a compliance score, ANDI visually highlights accessibility issues and offers specific recommendations, making it an essential tool for developers.

Conclusion

ANDI is a free, easy-to-use tool for accessibility testing. It provides real-time feedback on headings, forms, images, keyboard navigation, and color contrast, helping developers fix issues directly on the webpage. Unlike other tools that generate reports, ANDI offers interactive insights for quick improvements. Integrating ANDI into your workflow ensures your website is accessible, WCAG and Section 508 compliant, and user-friendly. It also boosts SEO and usability. For professional testing, Codoid offers expert support. Start using ANDI today to build a more inclusive web!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ANDI free to use?

Yes, ANDI is a free tool developed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help ensure web accessibility compliance.
Does ANDI work with all browsers?

ANDI is compatible with Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer. Safari requires a manual setup.
Can ANDI be used for professional accessibility testing?

Yes, ANDI provides interactive feedback for quick fixes, and for deeper testing, professional services like Codoid can help ensure full compliance.
Does ANDI affect website performance?

No, ANDI is a lightweight tool that runs directly in the browser without altering the website’s code.
How does ANDI compare to other accessibility testing tools?

Unlike automated tools that generate reports, ANDI highlights issues directly on the webpage, making it easier to implement improvements.

Screen Reader Accessibility Testing Tools

by Charlotte Johnson | Feb 26, 2025 | Accessibility Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 0 comments

Millions of people with disabilities rely on assistive technologies to navigate websites, applications, and digital content. Among these technologies, screen readers play a vital role in making digital platforms usable for individuals with visual impairments, cognitive disabilities, and other accessibility needs. Despite advancements in web development and design, many digital platforms still fail to accommodate users who depend on screen readers. Without proper accessibility testing, visually impaired users encounter significant barriers that prevent them from accessing information, completing transactions, or even performing basic online interactions. In this blog, we will explore the critical role of screen reader accessibility testing, the consequences of inadequate screen reader support, and the legal mandates that ensure digital inclusivity for all.

What Happens Without a Screen Reader?

For individuals who are blind or visually impaired, accessing digital content without a screen reader can be nearly impossible. Screen readers convert on-screen text, buttons, images, and other elements into speech or braille output, allowing users to navigate and interact with websites and applications. Without this assistive technology:

Navigation Becomes Impossible: Users cannot “see” menus, buttons, or links, making it difficult to move through a website.
Critical Information is Lost: Important content, such as descriptions of images, form labels, and error messages, is inaccessible.
Online Interactions Become Challenging: Tasks like shopping, filling out forms, and accessing services require proper accessibility support.

Without screen reader support, digital exclusion becomes a reality, limiting independence and access to essential services.

ADA vs Section 508 vs WCAG: Key Differences Explained

How Testers Evaluate Websites Using Screen Readers

Testers play a crucial role in ensuring websites are accessible to individuals with disabilities by using the same screen reader tools that visually impaired users rely on. By testing digital platforms from an accessibility perspective, they identify barriers and ensure compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG, ADA, and Section 508.

Here’s how testers evaluate a website using screen readers:

Text-to-Speech Verification: Testers use screen readers like NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver to check if all on-screen text is correctly converted into speech and read in a logical order.
Keyboard Navigation Testing: Since many users rely on keyboard shortcuts instead of a mouse, testers verify that all interactive elements (menus, buttons, links) can be accessed and navigated using keyboard commands.
Form Accessibility Checks: Testers confirm that screen readers correctly read out form labels, input fields, and error messages, allowing users to complete online transactions without confusion.
Image & Alt Text Validation: Using screen readers, testers ensure that images have proper alt text and that decorative images do not interfere with navigation.

By incorporating screen reader testing into their accessibility audits, testers help developers create an inclusive experience where visually impaired users can navigate, interact, and access content effortlessly.

A sample video explains how to perform testing using screen readers.

(In the shared video, we identified a bug related to the list items on the page. There is a single list item enclosed within ‘ul’ and ‘li’ tags, which is unnecessary for the content. This should be changed to a ‘p’ or ‘span’ tag to better suit the structure and purpose of the content.)

List of Screen Reader Tools for Accessibility Testing

Different devices have built-in or third-party screen readers, each designed for their platform. Testers use these tools to check how well websites and apps work for visually impaired users. By testing navigation with keyboard shortcuts, touch gestures, and braille displays, they identify accessibility issues and ensure a smooth, inclusive experience across all platforms.

1. NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

NVDA is one of the most popular free and open-source screen readers available for Windows. It is widely used by individuals, developers, and testers to ensure digital accessibility. NVDA supports multiple languages and braille devices, making it a versatile option for users worldwide. The software is also highly customizable with add-ons that enhance functionality. NVDA is compatible with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, allowing seamless web navigation.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Ctrl + Alt + N: Open NVDA menu.
Insert + Q: Exit NVDA.
Insert + Space: Toggle between browse and focus modes.
H: Navigate to the next heading.
K: Navigate to the next link.
D: Navigate to the next landmark.

2. JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

JAWS is a powerful commercial screen reader designed for Windows users. It provides advanced braille support, multiple language compatibility, and a highly responsive interface, making it ideal for professional and educational use. JAWS is widely adopted in workplaces and institutions due to its robust functionality and seamless integration with Microsoft Office and web browsers. It offers a free trial for 40 minutes, allowing users to test its capabilities before purchasing a license.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Insert + F1: Open the JAWS help menu.
Insert + Down Arrow: Read the current line.
Insert + T: Read the title of the current window.
H: Navigate to the next heading.
B: Navigate to the next button.
Ctrl: Stop speech.

3. VoiceOver

VoiceOver is Apple’s built-in screen reader, available on MacBooks, iPhones, and iPads. It is fully integrated into Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring smooth navigation across macOS and iOS devices. VoiceOver supports gesture-based navigation on iPhones and iPads, making it easy for users to interact with apps using touch gestures. On macOS, VoiceOver works with keyboard shortcuts and braille displays, providing a comprehensive accessibility experience.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Cmd + F5: Turn VoiceOver on/off.
Ctrl + Option + Arrow Keys: Navigate through elements.
Ctrl + Option + Space: Activate the selected item.
Ctrl + Option + H: Navigate to the next heading.

4. TalkBack

TalkBack is Android’s built-in screen reader, designed to help users with visual impairments navigate their devices through gesture-based controls. It provides audio feedback and spoken descriptions for on-screen elements, making it easier for users to interact with apps and perform tasks independently. TalkBack is compatible with third-party braille displays, expanding its accessibility features for visually impaired users who rely on tactile reading.

Need to know more? Click here

Gestures:

Swipe Right/Left: Move to the next/previous element.
Double Tap: Activate the selected item.
Two-Finger Swipe Down: Read all content on the screen.
Swipe Down then Right: Open the TalkBack menu.

https://assistivlabs.com/assistive-tech/screen-readers/narrator

5. Narrator

Narrator is Microsoft’s built-in screen reader, available on all Windows devices. It provides basic screen reading functionality for users who need an immediate accessibility solution. While it lacks the advanced features of NVDA and JAWS, Narrator is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Windows applications and web browsing. It also supports braille displays, making it a useful tool for users who prefer tactile feedback.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Caps Lock + Space: Activate the selected item.
Caps Lock + Arrow Keys: Navigate through elements.
Caps Lock + H: Navigate to the next heading.
Caps Lock + M: Start reading from the cursor position.

6. Orca

Orca is an open-source screen reader designed for Linux users. It is highly customizable, allowing users to modify speech, braille, and keyboard interactions according to their needs. Orca is widely used in the Linux community, especially by developers and users who prefer an open-source accessibility solution. It supports braille displays and works well with major Linux applications and browsers.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Insert + H: Navigate to the next heading.
Insert + Space: Toggle between browse and focus modes.
Insert + S: Read the current sentence.
Insert + Q: Exit Orca.

7. ChromeVox

ChromeVox is a lightweight screen reader developed specifically for Chromebooks and the Chrome browser. It is designed to provide a smooth web browsing experience for visually impaired users. ChromeVox is easy to enable with a simple keyboard shortcut and is optimized for Google services and web-based applications.

Need to know more? Click here

Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

Search + A: Read from the current location.
Search + Left/Right Arrow: Navigate to the previous/next element.
Search + Space: Activate the selected item.
Search + H: Navigate to the next heading.

ADA Compliance Checklist: Ensure Website Accessibility

Laws That Mandate Screen Reader Accessibility

Several global laws and regulations require digital accessibility, ensuring that people with disabilities can access online content without barriers. Some key legal frameworks include:

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – USA mandates that businesses and organizations make their digital content accessible, ensuring equal access to websites, applications, and digital services.
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act – USA requires federal agencies to ensure that their electronic and information technology is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
European Accessibility Act (EAA) – European Union mandates that digital services, including websites and mobile applications, be accessible to people with disabilities.
UK Equality Act 2010 – United Kingdom ensures digital platforms are accessible, preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities in accessing online content and services.

Many of these laws follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a globally recognized standard that provides best practices for making digital content accessible. WCAG ensures websites and applications support screen readers, keyboard navigation, and proper color contrast, helping businesses create an inclusive online experience. Failure to comply with these laws and standards can lead to legal action, financial penalties, and reputational damage.

Conclusion

Each screen reader tool has its own unique capabilities, shortcuts, and strengths. Digital accessibility goes beyond just legal compliance—it is about fostering an inclusive and user-friendly experience for all. Screen readers are essential in empowering visually impaired users to navigate websites, interact with applications, and access digital content independently. By incorporating screen reader testing into the development process, businesses can enhance usability, expand their audience, and showcase their dedication to inclusivity.

Codoid, a leading software testing company, specializes in accessibility testing, ensuring that digital platforms are fully accessible. They help businesses optimize their websites and applications for screen readers such as NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. With expertise in WCAG compliance testing, keyboard navigation testing, and a blend of manual and automated accessibility testing, Codoid ensures seamless digital experiences for all users

Frequently Asked Questions

How does screen reader testing improve user experience?

It ensures that visually impaired users can navigate, interact, and complete tasks independently, leading to a more inclusive and user-friendly digital experience.
Can screen readers test mobile applications?

Yes, testers use VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android) to evaluate mobile app accessibility, ensuring proper navigation and interaction.
Why is Screen Reader Accessibility Testing important?

It helps identify barriers that prevent visually impaired users from accessing digital content, ensuring compliance with WCAG, ADA, and Section 508 accessibility standards.
What are some commonly used screen readers for testing?

Testers use screen readers like:

NVDA (Windows) – Free and open-source
JAWS (Windows) – Paid with advanced features
VoiceOver (macOS & iOS) – Built-in for Apple devices
TalkBack (Android) – Built-in for Android devices
Narrator (Windows) – Basic built-in screen reader
Orca (Linux) – Open-source for Linux users
ChromeVox (Chrome OS) – Designed for web browsing
How can businesses ensure their websites are screen reader-friendly?

Businesses can:

Follow WCAG guidelines for accessibility compliance
Test with multiple screen readers
Use proper HTML structure, ARIA labels, and keyboard navigation
Conduct manual and automated accessibility testing

AI Assistant in Chrome Devtools: Guide for Testers

by Charlotte Johnson | Feb 24, 2025 | AI Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 0 comments

Modern web browsers have evolved tremendously, offering powerful tools that assist developers and testers in debugging and optimizing applications. Among these, Google Chrome DevTools stands out as an essential toolkit for inspecting websites, monitoring network activity, and refining the user experience. With continuous improvements in browser technology, Chrome DevTools now includes AI Assistant, an intelligent feature that enhances the debugging process by providing AI-powered insights and solutions. This addition makes it easier for testers to diagnose issues, optimize web applications, and ensure a seamless user experience.

In this guide, we will explore how AI Assistant can be used in Chrome DevTools, particularly in the Network and Elements tabs, to assist in API testing, UI validation, accessibility checks, and performance improvements.

How to do Accessibility Testing? A Complete Guide

Uses of the AI Assistant Tool in Chrome DevTools

Chrome DevTools offers a wide range of tools for inspecting elements, monitoring network activity, analyzing performance, and ensuring security compliance. Among these, the AI Ask Assistant stands out by providing instant, AI-driven insights that simplify complex debugging tasks.

1. Debugging API and Network Issues

Problem: API requests fail, take too long to respond, or return unexpected data.

How AI Helps:

Identifies HTTP errors (404 Not Found, 500 Internal Server Error, 403 Forbidden).
Detects CORS policy violations, incorrect API endpoints, or missing authentication tokens.
Suggests ways to optimize API performance by reducing payload size or caching responses.
Highlights security concerns in API requests (e.g., unsecured tokens, mixed content issues).
Compares actual API responses with expected values to validate data correctness.

2. UI Debugging and Fixing Layout Issues

Problem: UI elements are misaligned, invisible, or overlapping.

How AI Helps:

Identifies hidden elements caused by display: none or visibility: hidden.
Analyzes CSS conflicts that lead to layout shifts, broken buttons, or unclickable elements.
Suggests fixes for responsiveness issues affecting mobile and tablet views.
Diagnoses z-index problems where elements are layered incorrectly.
Checks for flexbox/grid misalignments causing inconsistent UI behavior.

3. Performance Optimization

Problem: The webpage loads too slowly, affecting user experience and SEO ranking.

How AI Helps:

Identifies slow-loading resources, such as unoptimized images, large CSS/JS files, and third-party scripts.
Suggests image compression and lazy loading to speed up rendering.
Highlights unnecessary JavaScript execution that may be slowing down interactivity.
Recommends caching strategies to improve page speed and reduce server load.
Detects render-blocking elements that delay the loading of critical content.

4. Accessibility Testing

Problem: The web application does not comply with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

>How AI Helps:

Identifies missing alt text for images, affecting screen reader users.
Highlights low color contrast issues that make text hard to read.
Suggests adding ARIA roles and labels to improve assistive technology compatibility.
Ensures proper keyboard navigation, making the site accessible for users who rely on tab-based navigation.
Detects form accessibility issues, such as missing labels or incorrectly grouped form elements.

5. Security and Compliance Checks

Problem: The website has security vulnerabilities that could expose sensitive user data.

How AI Helps:

Detects insecure HTTP requests that should use HTTPS.
Highlights CORS misconfigurations that may expose sensitive data.
Identifies missing security headers, such as Content-Security-Policy, X-Frame-Options, and Strict-Transport-Security.
Flags exposed API keys or credentials in the network logs.
Suggests best practices for secure authentication and session management.

6. Troubleshooting JavaScript Errors

Problem: JavaScript errors are causing unexpected behavior in the web application.

>How AI Helps:

Analyzes console errors and suggests fixes.
Identifies undefined variables, syntax errors, and missing dependencies.
Helps debug event listeners and asynchronous function execution.
Suggests ways to optimize JavaScript performance to avoid slow interactions.

7. Cross-Browser Compatibility Testing

Problem: The website works fine in Chrome but breaks in Firefox or Safari.

How AI Helps:

Highlights CSS properties that may not be supported in some browsers.
Detects JavaScript features that are incompatible with older browsers.
Suggests polyfills and workarounds to ensure cross-browser support.

8. Enhancing Test Automation Strategies

Problem: Automated tests fail due to dynamic elements or inconsistent behavior.

How AI Helps:

Identifies flaky tests caused by timing issues and improper waits.
Suggests better locators for web elements to improve test reliability.
Provides workarounds for handling dynamic content (e.g., pop-ups, lazy-loaded elements).
Helps in writing efficient automation scripts by improving test structure.

European Accessibility Act : What You Need to Know

Getting Started with Chrome DevTools AI Ask Assistant

Before diving into specific tabs, let’s first enable the AI Ask Assistant in Chrome DevTools:

Step 1: Open Chrome DevTools

Open Google Chrome.
Navigate to the web application under test.
Right-click anywhere on the page and select Inspect, or press F12 / Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Option + I (Mac).
In the DevTools panel, click on the Experiments settings.

Step 2: Enable AI Ask Assistant

Enable AI Ask Assistant if it’s available in your Chrome version.
Restart DevTools for the changes to take effect.

Using AI Ask Assistant in the Network Tab for Testers

The Network tab is crucial for testers to validate API requests, analyze performance, and diagnose failed network calls. The AI Ask Assistant enhances this by providing instant insights and suggestions.

Step 1: Open the Network Tab

Open DevTools (F12 / Ctrl + Shift + I).
Navigate to the Network tab.
Reload the page (Ctrl + R / Cmd + R) to capture network activity.

Step 2: Ask AI to Analyze a Network Request

Identify a specific request in the network log (e.g., API call, AJAX request, third-party script load, etc.).
Right-click on the request and select Ask AI Assistant.
Ask questions like:

“Why is this request failing?”
“What is causing the delay in response time?”
“Are there any CORS-related issues in this request?”
“How can I debug a 403 Forbidden error?”

Step 3: Get AI-Powered Insights for Testing

AI will analyze the request and provide explanations.
It may suggest fixes for failed requests (e.g., CORS issues, incorrect API endpoints, authentication errors).
You can refine your query for better insights.

Step 4: Debug Network Issues from a Tester’s Perspective

Some example problems AI can help with:

API Testing Issues: AI explains 404, 500, or 403 errors.
Performance Bottlenecks: AI suggests ways to optimize API response time and detect slow endpoints.
Security Testing: AI highlights CORS issues, mixed content, and security vulnerabilities.
Data Validation: AI helps verify response payloads against expected values.

Here I asked: “What is causing the delay in response time?”

Using AI Ask Assistant in the Elements Tab for UI Testing

The Elements tab is used to inspect and manipulate HTML and CSS. AI Ask Assistant helps testers debug UI issues efficiently.

Step 1: Open the Elements Tab

Open DevTools (F12 / Ctrl + Shift + I).
Navigate to the Elements tab.

Step 2: Use AI for UI Debugging

Select an element in the HTML tree.
Right-click and choose Ask AI Assistant.
Ask questions like:

“Why is this button not clickable?”
“What styles are affecting this dropdown?”
“Why is this element overlapping?”
“How can I fix responsiveness issues?”

BrowserStack Accessibility Testing Made Simple

Practical Use Cases for Testers

1. Debugging a Failed API Call in a Test Case

Open the Network tab → Select the request → Ask AI why it failed.

AI explains 403 error due to missing authentication.

Follow AI’s solution to add the correct headers in API tests.

2. Identifying Broken UI Elements

Open the Elements tab → Select the element → Ask AI why it’s not visible.

AI identifies display: none in CSS.

Modify the style based on AI’s suggestion and verify in different screen sizes.

3. Validating Page Load Performance in Web Testing

Open the Network tab → Ask AI how to optimize resources.

AI suggests reducing unnecessary JavaScript and compressing images.

Implement suggested changes to improve performance and page load times.

4. Identifying Accessibility Issues

Use the Elements tab → Inspect accessibility attributes.

Ask AI to suggest ARIA roles and label improvements.

Verify compliance with WCAG guidelines.

Conclusion

The AI Ask Assistant in Chrome DevTools makes debugging faster and more efficient by providing real-time AI-driven insights. It helps testers and developers quickly identify and fix network issues, UI bugs, performance bottlenecks, security risks, and accessibility concerns, ensuring high-quality applications. While AI tools improve efficiency, expert testing is essential for delivering reliable software. Codoid, a leader in software testing, specializes in automation, performance, accessibility, security, and functional testing. With industry expertise and cutting-edge tools, Codoid ensures high-quality, seamless, and secure applications across all domains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does AI Assistant help in debugging API and network issues?

AI Assistant analyzes API requests, detects HTTP errors (404, 500, etc.), identifies CORS issues, and suggests ways to optimize response time and security.
Can AI Assistant help fix UI layout issues?

Yes, it helps by identifying hidden elements, CSS conflicts, and responsiveness problems, ensuring a visually consistent and accessible UI.
Can AI Assistant be used for accessibility testing?

Yes, it helps testers ensure WCAG compliance by identifying missing alt text, color contrast issues, and keyboard navigation problems.
What security vulnerabilities can AI Assistant detect?

It highlights insecure HTTP requests, missing security headers, and exposed API keys, helping testers improve security compliance.
Can AI Assistant help with cross-browser compatibility?

Yes, it detects CSS properties and JavaScript features that may not work in certain browsers and suggests polyfills or alternatives.

CoTestPilot Integration With Selenium python

by Jacob | Feb 23, 2025 | Automation Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 1 comment

Automated testing has evolved significantly with tools like Selenium and Playwright, streamlining the testing process and boosting productivity. However, testers still face several challenges when relying solely on these traditional frameworks. One of the biggest hurdles is detecting visual discrepancies. While Selenium and Playwright excel at functional testing, they struggle with visual validation. This makes it difficult to spot layout shifts, color inconsistencies, and overlapping elements, leading to UI issues slipping through to production. Accessibility testing is another challenge. Ensuring web accessibility, such as proper color contrast and keyboard navigation, often requires additional tools or manual checks. This is time-consuming and increases the risk of human error. Traditional automation frameworks also focus mainly on functional correctness, overlooking usability, user experience, and security aspects. This results in gaps in comprehensive testing coverage.This is where CoTestPilot comes in. It’s a new and innovative solution that enhances Selenium and Playwright with AI-driven. We recently tried CoTestPilot in our testing framework, and it worked surprisingly well. It not only addressed the limitations we faced but also improved our testing accuracy and efficiency.

In this blog, we’ll explain CoTestPilot in detail and show you how to integrate it with Selenium. Whether you’re new to automated testing or want to improve your current setup, this guide will help you use CoTestPilot to make testing more efficient and accurate.

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What is CoTestPilot?

CoTestPilot is a simplified version of the AI Testing Agents from Checkie.ai and Testers.ai. It extends the capabilities of Playwright and Selenium by integrating AI features for automated testing and bug detection. By leveraging GPT-4 Vision, CoTestPilot analyzes web pages to identify potential issues such as visual inconsistencies, layout problems, and usability concerns. This addition helps testers automate complex tasks more efficiently and ensures thorough testing with advanced AI-powered insights.

Why Use CoTestPilot?

1. AI-Powered Visual Analysis

CoTestPilot uses advanced AI algorithms to perform in-depth visual inspections of web pages. Here’s how it works:

It scans web pages to identify visual inconsistencies, such as layout misalignments, overlapping elements, or distorted images.
The AI can compare current UI designs with baseline images, detecting even the smallest discrepancies.
It also checks for content disparities, ensuring that text, images, and other elements are displayed correctly across different devices and screen sizes.
By catching UI issues early in the development process, CoTestPilot helps maintain a consistent user experience and reduces the risk of visual bugs reaching production.

2. Various Testing Personas

CoTestPilot offers multiple automated testing perspectives, simulating the viewpoints of different stakeholders:

UI/UX Specialists: Tests for visual consistency, user interface behavior, and layout design to ensure a smooth user experience.
Accessibility Auditors: Checks for accessibility issues such as missing alt tags, insufficient color contrast, and improper keyboard navigation, ensuring compliance with standards like WCAG.
Security Testers: Examines the application for potential security vulnerabilities, such as cross-site scripting (XSS) or improper data handling.
These personas help create a more thorough testing process, covering different aspects of the application’s functionality and usability.

3. Customizable Checks

CoTestPilot allows testers to integrate custom test rules and prompts, making it highly adaptable to various testing scenarios:

You can define specific rules that align with your project requirements, such as checking for brand guidelines, color schemes, or UI component behavior.
It supports tailored testing scenarios, enabling you to focus on the most critical aspects of your application.
This customization makes CoTestPilot flexible and suitable for different projects and industries, from e-commerce sites to complex enterprise applications.

4. Detailed Reporting

CoTestPilot generates comprehensive bug reports that provide valuable insights for developers and stakeholders:

Each report includes detailed issue descriptions, highlighting the exact problem encountered during testing.
It assigns severity levels to each issue, helping teams prioritize fixes based on impact and urgency.
Recommended solutions are provided, offering guidance on how to resolve the detected issues efficiently.
The reports also feature visual snapshots of detected problems, allowing testers and developers to understand the context of the bug more easily.
This level of detail enhances collaboration between testing and development teams, leading to faster debugging and resolution times.

Installation

To get started, simply download the selenium_cotestpilot folder and add it to your test folder. Currently, CoTestPilot is not available via pip.

Git Repository: Click Here

Prerequisites

1.Set up your OpenAI API key in an .env file.

2. Install Selenium and WebDriver using pip:


pip install selenium
pip install webdriver-manager

Usage

Basic UI Checks with CoTestPilot

The ui_test_using_coTestPilot() function analyzes web pages for UI inconsistencies such as alignment issues, visual glitches, and spelling errors.

How It Works:

Loads the webpage using Selenium WebDriver.
Executes an AI-driven UI check using ai_check(), which dynamically evaluates the page.
Saves the results in JSON format in the ai_check_results directory.
Generates a detailed AI-based report using ai_report().
Screenshots are captured before and after testing to highlight changes.

Sample Selenium Code for UI Testing


python

# Import necessary modules
from selenium import webdriver as wd  # Selenium WebDriver for browser automation
from selenium.webdriver.chrome.service import Service  # Manages Chrome WebDriver service
from webdriver_manager.chrome import ChromeDriverManager  # Automatically downloads ChromeDriver
from dotenv import load_dotenv  # Loads environment variables from a .env file

# Initialize the Chrome WebDriver
driver = wd.Chrome(service=Service(ChromeDriverManager().install()))

# Load environment variables (if any) from a .env file
load_dotenv()

# Function to perform UI testing using coTestPilot AI
def ui_test_using_coTestPilot():
    # Open the target web application in the browser
    driver.get('http://XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.com/')
    
    # Maximize the browser window for better visibility
    driver.maximize_window()

    # Perform AI-powered UI analysis on the webpage
    result = driver.ai_check(
        testers=['Aiden'],  # Specify the tester name
        custom_prompt="Analyze the UI for inconsistencies, alignment issues, visual glitches, and spelling mistakes."
    )

    # Print the number of issues found in the UI
    print(f'Found {len(result.bugs)} issues')

    # Generate an AI check report and store it in the specified directory
    report_path = driver.ai_report(output_dir="ai_check_results")
    
    # Print the report file path for reference
    print(f"Report path we've generated for you is at: {report_path}")

# Call the function to execute the UI test
ui_test_using_coTestPilot()

Sample JSON file:

Sample Report

ChainTest Report Generation with Selenium

Basic Accessibility Checks with CoTestPilot

The accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot() function evaluates web pages for accessibility concerns and ensures compliance with accessibility standards.

How It Works:

Loads the webpage using Selenium WebDriver.
Uses AI-based ai_check() to detect accessibility barriers.
Stores the findings in ai_check_results.
Generates an AI-based accessibility report with ai_report().
Screenshots are captured for visual representation of accessibility issues.

Sample Selenium Code for Accessibility Testing


python

from selenium import webdriver as wd
from selenium.webdriver.chrome.service import Service
from webdriver_manager.chrome import ChromeDriverManager
from dotenv import load_dotenv

# Initialize the Chrome WebDriver
driver = wd.Chrome(service=Service(ChromeDriverManager().install()))

# Load environment variables (if any)
load_dotenv()

# Function to perform accessibility testing using coTestPilot AI
def accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot():
    # Open the target web page in the browser
    driver.get("https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5nydr9rqvo")

    # Perform AI-powered accessibility analysis on the webpage
    result = driver.ai_check(
        testers=["Alejandro"],  # Specify the tester name
        custom_prompt="Focus on identifying accessibility-related concerns."
    )

    # Print the number of accessibility issues found
    print(f"Found {len(result.bugs)} issues")

    # Generate an AI check report and store it in the specified directory
    report_path = driver.ai_report(output_dir="ai_check_results")

    # Print the report file path for reference
    print(f"Report path we've generated for you is at: {report_path}")

# Call the function to execute the accessibility test
accessibility_testing_using_coTestPilot()

Sample JSON file:

Report

Common Elements in Both Functions

ai_check(): Dynamically evaluates web pages based on AI-based testing strategies.
ai_report(): Generates structured reports to help testers identify and resolve issues efficiently.
Screenshots are captured before and after testing for better visual debugging.

Understanding the AI-Generated Report

The ai_report() function generates a structured report that provides insights into detected issues. The report typically includes:

1. Issue Summary: A high-level summary of detected problems, categorized by severity (Critical, Major, Minor).

2. Detailed Breakdown:

UI Issues: Reports on misalignments, overlapping elements, color contrast problems, and text readability.
Accessibility Concerns: Highlights potential barriers for users with disabilities, including missing alt texts, keyboard navigation failures, and ARIA compliance violations.
Performance Insights: Identifies page load issues, resource-heavy elements, and responsiveness concerns.

3. Suggested Fixes: AI-driven recommendations for addressing detected issues.

4. Screenshots: Before-and-after visual comparisons showcasing detected changes and anomalies.

5. Code-Level Suggestions: When possible, the report provides specific code snippets or guidance for resolving the detected issues.

Advanced Features

AI-Powered Anomaly Detection

Detects deviations from design standards and UI elements.
Compares current and previous screenshots to highlight discrepancies.

Security Testing Integration

Identifies security vulnerabilities like open redirects and mixed content warnings.
Provides security recommendations for web applications.

Conclusion:

Integrating CoTestPilot with Selenium significantly enhances automated testing by incorporating AI-driven UI and accessibility evaluations. Traditional automation tools focus primarily on functional correctness, often overlooking visual inconsistencies and accessibility barriers. CoTestPilot bridges this gap by leveraging AI-powered insights to detect issues early, ensuring a seamless user experience and compliance with accessibility standards. By implementing CoTestPilot, testers can automate complex validations, reduce manual effort, and generate detailed reports that provide actionable insights. The ability to capture before-and-after screenshots further strengthens debugging by visually identifying changes and UI problems.

At Codoid, we take software testing to the next level by offering comprehensive testing services, including automation, accessibility, performance, security, and functional testing. Our expertise spans across industries, ensuring that applications deliver optimal performance, usability, and compliance. Whether it’s AI-driven test automation, rigorous accessibility assessments, or robust security evaluations, Codoid remains at the forefront of quality assurance excellence.

If you’re looking to enhance your testing strategy with cutting-edge tools and industry-leading expertise, Codoid is your trusted partner in ensuring superior software quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the test results stored?

The test reports are saved in the specified output directory (ai_check_results), which contains a detailed HTML or JSON report.
Is CoTestPilot suitable for all web applications?

Yes, it can be used for any web-based application that can be accessed via Selenium WebDriver.
Can I customize the AI testing criteria?

Yes, you can specify testers and provide a custom prompt to focus on particular concerns, such as accessibility compliance or UI responsiveness.
What type of issues can CoTestPilot detect?

It can identify:

UI inconsistencies (misalignment, broken layouts)
Accessibility problems (color contrast, screen reader issues)
Security risks related to front-end vulnerabilities
How does CoTestPilot improve Selenium automation?

It integrates AI-based analysis into Selenium scripts, allowing automated detection of visual glitches, alignment issues, accessibility concerns, and potential security vulnerabilities.

ADA vs Section 508 vs WCAG: Key Differences Explained

by Mollie Brown | Feb 20, 2025 | Accessibility Testing, Blog, Latest Post | 0 comments

Accessibility is crucial in web and app development. As we rely more on digital platforms for communication, shopping, healthcare, and entertainment, it’s important to make sure everyone, including people with disabilities, can easily access and use online content. Accessibility testing helps identify and fix issues, ensuring websites and apps work well for all users, regardless of their abilities. It’s not just about following rules, but about making sure all users have a positive experience. People with disabilities, such as those with vision, hearing, mobility, or cognitive challenges, should be able to navigate websites, find information, make transactions, and enjoy digital content easily. This can include features like text descriptions for images, keyboard shortcuts, video captions, and compatibility with screen readers and assistive devices. Understanding the ADA vs. Section 508 vs. WCAG guidelines helps create accessible experiences for all.

Three key accessibility standards define how digital content should be made accessible:

ADA(Americans with Disabilities Act) is a U.S. civil rights law that applies to private businesses, public places, and online services. It ensures equal access to goods, services, and information for people with disabilities.
Section 508 is specific to U.S. federal government agencies and organizations receiving federal funding. It mandates that all electronic and information technology used by these entities is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
WCAG(Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is a globally recognized set of standards for digital accessibility. While not a law, it is frequently used as a benchmark for ADA and Section 508 compliance.

Many people find it challenging to distinguish between the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 because they are both U.S. laws designed to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. However, they apply to different entities and serve distinct purposes. The ADA is a civil rights law that applies to private businesses, public places, and online services, ensuring equal access to goods, services, and information for people with disabilities. For instance, an e-commerce website must be accessible to users who rely on screen readers or other assistive technologies.

In contrast, Section 508 targets U.S. federal government agencies and organizations receiving federal funding. Its primary aim is to ensure that all electronic and information technology used by these entities, such as websites and digital documents, is accessible to individuals with disabilities. For example, a government website providing public services must be fully compatible with assistive technologies to ensure accessibility for all users.

Although these standards overlap in their objectives, they differ in their applications, enforcement, and compliance. WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) also plays a crucial role as a globally recognized set of standards that guide digital accessibility practices. This guide will delve into these standards at length, providing details of their background, main principles, legal considerations, and best practices in compliance.

How to do Accessibility Testing? A Complete Guide

ADA: The Legal Backbone of Digital Accessibility in the U.S.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights statute passed in 1990 to ban discrimination against people with disabilities. Although initially aimed at physical locations, courts have come to apply Title III of the ADA to websites, mobile applications, and online services.

Key Titles of the ADA

Title I: Employment discrimination.
Title II: Accessibility for government services and public entities.
Title III: Covers businesses and public accommodations

Legal Precedents & Enforcement

Domino’s Pizza v. Guillermo Robles (2019) – A blind user sued Domino’s because its website was inaccessible via screen readers. The court ruled in favor of accessibility.
Target (2008) – Target paid $6 million after being sued for website inaccessibility.
Beyoncé’s Website Lawsuit (2019) – The singer’s official website faced legal action due to a lack of screen reader compatibility.

Compliance Requirements

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has not specified a technical standard for ADA compliance, but courts frequently reference WCAG 2.1 AA as the benchmark.

Who Must Comply with ADA?

Private businesses offering goods/services to the public.

Example: E-commerce platforms, healthcare providers, financial services, and educational institutions.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Lawsuits & Legal Fines – Organizations may face costly legal battles.
Reputational Damage – Public backlash and loss of consumer trust.
Forced Compliance Orders – Companies may be required to implement accessibility changes under legal scrutiny.

Section 508: Accessibility for Government Agencies

Section 508 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requiring U.S. federal agencies and organizations receiving federal funding to make their digital content accessible.

508 Refresh (2017)

The 2017 update aligned Section 508 requirements with WCAG 2.0 AA, making it easier for organizations to follow global best practices.

Who Must Comply?

Federal agencies (e.g., IRS, NASA, Department of Education).
Government contractors and federally funded institutions.
Universities and organizations receiving government grants.

Understanding WCAG: The Global Standard for Web Accessibility

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a collection of technical standards established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) as part of the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). As opposed to ADA and Section 508, WCAG is not legislation but rather a de facto standard for web accessibility that has gained universal recognition across the globe.

History of WCAG

WCAG 1.0 (1999): The first version of accessibility guidelines.
WCAG 2.0 (2008): Introduced the POUR principles (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust).
WCAG 2.1 (2018): Added guidelines for mobile accessibility and low-vision users.
WCAG 2.2 (2023): Introduced additional criteria for cognitive and learning disabilities.

WCAG Principles: POUR Framework

WCAG is built around four core principles, ensuring that digital content is:

Perceivable – Information must be available to all users, including those using screen readers or magnification tools.
Operable – Users must be able to navigate and interact with the site using a keyboard or assistive technologies.
Understandable – Content should be readable and predictable.
Robust – Content must work well across different devices and assistive technologies.

WCAG Compliance Levels

WCAG has three levels of conformance:

Level A – Basic accessibility requirements.
Level AA – Standard compliance level (required by most laws, including ADA and Section 508).
Level AAA – The highest level, ideal for specialized accessibility needs.

Comparing ADA, Section 508 and WCAG

S. No	Feature	ADA	Section 508	WCAG
1	Type	U.S. Law	U.S. Federal Law	Guidelines
2	Applies To	U.S. Businesses & Public Services	U.S. Federal Agencies, Contractors & organizations receiving federal funding	Everyone (Global Standard)
3	Legal Requirement?	Yes	Yes	No (but widely referenced)
4	Compliance Standard	No official standard (WCAG used)	WCAG 2.0 AA	WCAG 2.1 / 2.2
5	Enforcement	DOJ, Lawsuits	Government Audits	No official enforcement
6	Non-Compliance Risks	Lawsuits, fines	Loss of contracts, compliance penalties	Poor accessibility, user complaints
7	A, AA, AAA Compliance Levels	Focuses on overall accessibility, not A, AA, AAA levels	Requires WCAG 2.0 AA compliance for federal entities	A: Basic, AA: Recommended, AAA: Optimal (often difficult to achieve)

ADA Compliance Checklist: Ensure Website Accessibility

Best Practices for Ensuring Compliance

1.Conduct an Accessibility Audit – Utilize tools such as Axe, ARC Toolkit, WAVE, or Color Contrast Analyzer.

2.Test with Assistive Technologies – Test for compatibility with NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver screen readers.

3. Ensure Keyboard Navigation – Users must be able to access all content without using a mouse.

4. Provide Alternative Text (Alt Text) – Include alt text for images and semantic labels for form fields.

5. Improve Color Contrast – Provide a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 between text and background.

6. Use Semantic HTML – Correctly structure headers, buttons, and links so they are simple to navigate through.

7. Ensure Captioning & Transcripts – Caption videos and make transcripts available for audio content.

8. Perform Regular Testing – Accessibility never ends; periodically test and keep up to date.

9. Ensure table readability – Provide a proper table header, table caption, and summary of the complex table.

10. Ensure Heading Level – Provide a correct heading hierarchy for every page, and every page should have an H1 tag.

11. Resize & Reflow – Ensure content adapts properly when resized for Resize up to 200% without changing any resolution and Reflow up to 400% change with resolution into vertical scrolling content (320 CSS pixels) and horizontal scrolling content (256 CSS pixels) without loss of functionality or readability.

12. Text Spacing – Allow users to adjust letter spacing, line height, and paragraph spacing without breaking layout or hiding content.

13. Use of Color – Do not rely on color alone to convey meaning; provide text labels, patterns, or icons as alternatives.

Conclusion

Ensuring digital accessibility is not just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about inclusivity and equal access for all users. By adhering to accessibility standards like WCAG, ADA, and Section 508, organizations can provide a seamless digital experience for everyone, regardless of their abilities. At Codoid, our team of skilled engineers specializes in accessibility testing using a range of advanced tools and techniques. From automated audits to manual testing with assistive technologies, we ensure that your digital platforms are accessible, compliant, and user-friendly. Trust Codoid to help you achieve accessibility excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the latest version of WCAG?

The latest version is WCAG 2.2, which introduces new success criteria for users with cognitive disabilities and touch-based interactions.
How does WCAG affect mobile accessibility?

WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 include guidelines for touch interactions, mobile screen readers, and small-screen adaptations to enhance accessibility for mobile users.
How do I check if my website is ADA or WCAG compliant?

Use accessibility testing tools like axe DevTools, WAVE, Lighthouse, and BrowserStack, and test with screen readers like JAWS and NVDA.
What are the ADA levels for WCAG?

WCAG 2.1 guidelines are categorized into three levels of conformance in order to meet the needs of different groups and different situations: A (lowest), AA (mid range), and AAA (highest). Conformance at higher levels indicates conformance at lower levels.

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Guide to Writing tour First API Test with Playwright

Writing Your First API Test with Playwright

Making Different API Requests

Handling Authentication in API Testing

Best Practices for API Testing with Playwright

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

History of ANDI and Its Inventor

Key Features of ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool:

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Compatible Browsers for ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

How to Install ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

Installation Instructions for Different Browsers

For Google Chrome & Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based browsers):

For Mozilla Firefox:

For Internet Explorer:

For Safari (Manual Setup Required):

How to Use ANDI Accessibility Testing Tool

Step 1: Activate ANDI on a Webpage

Step 2: Analyze Accessibility Elements

Step 3: Review ANDI’s Recommendations

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Example Scenarios & How ANDI Helps

Why Use ANDI for Accessibility Testing?

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens Without a Screen Reader?

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How Testers Evaluate Websites Using Screen Readers

List of Screen Reader Tools for Accessibility Testing

1. NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

2. JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

3. VoiceOver

4. TalkBack

5. Narrator

6. Orca

7. ChromeVox

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Laws That Mandate Screen Reader Accessibility

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

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Uses of the AI Assistant Tool in Chrome DevTools

1. Debugging API and Network Issues

2. UI Debugging and Fixing Layout Issues

3. Performance Optimization

4. Accessibility Testing

5. Security and Compliance Checks

6. Troubleshooting JavaScript Errors

7. Cross-Browser Compatibility Testing

8. Enhancing Test Automation Strategies

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Getting Started with Chrome DevTools AI Ask Assistant

Using AI Ask Assistant in the Network Tab for Testers

Using AI Ask Assistant in the Elements Tab for UI Testing

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Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is CoTestPilot?

Why Use CoTestPilot?

Installation

Prerequisites

Usage

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Common Elements in Both Functions

Understanding the AI-Generated Report

Advanced Features

Conclusion:

Frequently Asked Questions

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