Iframes need title
ZMD012ZemDomu reports a supported <iframe> with a missing or empty title attribute. Add a concise title that identifies the embedded content or task.
What this rule catches
- Static <iframe> elements without a title attribute.
- Static iframe title values that are empty or contain only whitespace.
What static analysis cannot prove
- Static analysis cannot judge whether the title accurately distinguishes the frame from other embedded content.
- It cannot test the accessibility, focus behavior, or content inside the embedded document.
Standards classification and detection confidence
- Classification
- normative — The rule checks the supported source mechanism for identifying frame content.
- Detection confidence
- high — A missing or empty static title is deterministic. The rule cannot judge whether a non-empty title describes the embedded content accurately.
Applicable WCAG 2.2 criteria
Criterion 4.1.2 is applicable to the programmatically determinable name of user-interface components, including titled frames in supported contexts.
Normative means the rule checks a machine-testable part of a cited standards requirement. Advisory means it enforces a documented authoring convention or supporting technique. Neither classification makes a ZemDomu result proof of WCAG conformance.
Examples
✅ Good
<iframe src="video.html" title="Product demo video"></iframe>❌ Bad
<iframe src="video.html"></iframe>Quick summary
When: An <iframe> lacks a title or it is empty
Warning: <iframe> missing title attribute
Solution: Add a short title to describe the content
Why it matters
Accessibility: Unnamed frames force screen-reader users to navigate into them and guess purpose.
Semantic context: A frame title identifies the embedded content before users enter it.
Rule details
In brief
- Goal: Provide an accessible name for each frame.
- What to do: Add title="…" to every <iframe> element.
- Why: Without a title, users must enter the frame to learn its purpose.
Intent
Ensure frames are self-describing to assistive technologies.
Benefits
- Screen readers announce frames by title, enabling quick navigation.
- Users see context above embedded content.
Techniques
H64: Using the title attribute of frame and iframe elements.
HTML Semantics
The title attribute defines the user-visible name of a frame; omitting it leaves the frame unnamed.
References
Tips & edge cases
- Keep titles concise—treat them like frame headlines, not full descriptions.
- Ensure each iframe on a page has a unique title to avoid confusion.
Related guides
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