Review HIG Compliance
Use this skill to evaluate an interface against Apple-style product quality. Lead with actionable findings.
Workflow
- Identify platform target: iOS, iPadOS, macOS, web with Apple style, or mixed.
- Inspect the artifact: screenshot, running app, code, design spec, or PR diff. If possible, verify at multiple viewport sizes and color schemes.
- Review in this order: task clarity, navigation model, layout and safe areas, controls, typography, color/materials, accessibility, motion, states, and implementation details.
- Separate HIG issues from personal taste. Explain why each issue affects usability, platform fit, accessibility, or implementation quality.
- Give fixes that are specific enough to implement. Include file/line references for code reviews when available.
- End with residual risks and the smallest next verification step.
Finding Priorities
- P0: Blocks core use, severe accessibility failure, data loss, unsafe destructive action.
- P1: Major platform mismatch, broken navigation, unreadable text, impossible Dynamic Type, unsafe safe-area overlap.
- P2: Noticeable HIG mismatch, inconsistent controls, weak hierarchy, incomplete states.
- P3: Polish, naming, spacing, icon choice, minor consistency.
Review Heuristics
- Native feel: does the layout use familiar platform structures, or does it import web/desktop habits into iOS?
- Hierarchy: can a first-time user tell what matters and what to do next?
- Adaptation: does it survive small screens, iPad widths, orientation changes, large text, localization, and dark mode?
- Controls: are actions in expected places, with 44pt targets on touch platforms and clear affordances?
- Materials: does blur/glass clarify layers without harming contrast?
- Accessibility: are labels, focus order, contrast, motion, touch targets, and non-color cues present?
References
Read references/hig-audit-checklist.md for a detailed checklist and source links.