Overview
ISO/IEC 30113-11:2017 - Information technology: Single-point gestures for common system actions defines a common vocabulary and behavior for single-point gestures used across information and communications technology (ICT) systems. The standard specifies movements and classifications for gestures performed with a single point of interest (POI) - for example a mouse pointer, stylus tip or fingertip - so that gestures operate consistently regardless of platform, device or application. Target systems include digital TVs, set-top boxes, game consoles, communication devices, Internet/entertainment devices and personal computers.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Definitions and scope
- Clear definitions of POI, single-point gesture, and how these differ from multi-point gestures.
- Types of gestures
- Mediated gestures (e.g., mouse, joystick) - includes guidance on activation and avoiding misrecognition (example minimum movement thresholds are discussed).
- Direct touch gestures (e.g., tapping, holding, pressing, swiping on touchscreens).
- Non-contact gestures (gestures generated without direct physical contact).
- Gesture descriptions and classification
- Directional gestures: left, right, up, down, forward, backward, clockwise/counter-clockwise rotation.
- Command gestures: tap, double-tap, tap-and-hold, displace, horizontal/vertical wave.
- Interaction and feedback
- Guidance on visual feedback (e.g., visual trails) and when feedback may interfere (such as during continuous manipulation).
- Gesture adaptation and movement metaphor
- Considerations for mapping gestures to application behaviors and adapting gestures across contexts.
- User-centered focus
- Emphasis on cognitive aspects, accessibility (including users with disabilities and older adults), and consistent user expectations.
- System-level and cross-application functions
- Standardizes gestures for system functions (select, initiate, terminate, resume, restart) and common app functions (navigate menus, open/close, help, undo/redo).
Applications and practical value
- Ensures consistent gesture behavior across devices and platforms to reduce user confusion and learning overhead.
- Useful for UI/UX designers, software developers, device manufacturers and platform architects implementing gesture recognition and interaction models.
- Improves accessibility by providing repeatable, well-defined gestures that can be adapted for assistive technologies (eye-tracking, facial recognition, etc.).
- Applicable in consumer electronics, gaming, smart TVs, mobile apps, kiosks and any ICT product that accepts single-point input.
Who should use this standard
- User interface designers, interaction designers, software and firmware developers, product managers, accessibility specialists, and standards committees working on gesture-based interfaces.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO/IEC 30113-11:2017, single-point gestures, gesture-based interfaces, POI, mediated gesture, direct touch, ICT systems, gesture standardization, accessibility.