The criterion behind it
2.5.8 Target Size (Minimum)
Tap targets need to be at least 24 by 24 CSS pixels, or spaced far enough apart.
Level AA
Why this check exists
Small, tightly packed controls cause mis-taps for anyone with limited dexterity — and for everyone on a train.
What usually triggers it
- failsA row of 16px social icons.
- failsPagination numbers a few pixels apart.
How to fix it
- doGive the target 24×24 of hit area, padding included — the visible icon can stay small.
- doWhere the design cannot grow, increase spacing so the 24px circles do not overlap.
How it is reported
A11ySignal reports this at serious impact. Every failing element comes with its CSS selector and the markup that failed, so you can go straight to the line rather than hunting for it. Deque publishes the engine-level detail:
https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.13/target-size ↗
Check implemented by axe-core 4.13.0, © Deque Systems, MPL-2.0.