Gesture-based interfaces allow users the freedom to interact with systems without input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or game controller. The gestures for common system actions denote system-level functions and common functions across applications of information and communication technology (ICT) systems. The system-level functions are executed at a system or a platform level. They include initiation, resume, restart and termination, etc. The common functions across applications are commonly executed among applications of a system or a platform. The functions include navigation of menus, opening an object, closing an object, etc.
ISO/IEC 30113-12 defines multi-point gestures for common system actions used in ICT systems. ISO/IEC 30113-12 specifies movements and conditions for describing multi-point gestures recognized by the systems and applications. The multi-point gestures are performed using an input device (multi-touchpad, multi touchscreen, etc.) or body parts (fingertips, hands, etc.). These multi-point gestures are intended to operate in a consistent manner regardless of systems, platforms or applications.
ISO/IEC 30113-12 on multi-touch gestures for devices is useful for:
Gesture-based interfaces have received great attention around the world and are considered a trend of the future. A multi-point gesture is generated by a user with several pointers (which includes an input device such as a multi-touchpad, multi-touchscreen or body parts such as fingertips, hands, etc.) providing gesture actions using a multi-point of interest. Multi-point gestures are used in several commercially available ICT systems including personal computers, smartphones and video game consoles.
ISO/IEC 30113-12 provides you with descriptions of multi-point gestures and their corresponding gesture commands for system-level functions and common functions across applications on ICT systems. The system-level functions include functions for selecting and initiating applications which are handled by operating systems or platforms.
ISO/IEC 30113-12 provides general guidance on the standard gestures for screen readers running on various ICT devices. By adopting ISO/IEC 30113-12 guidelines, you can ensure that the standardized gestures for users of ICT devices are able to identify elements and navigate the screen seamlessly.
BSI recommends this version of standard for organisations operating in or with the UK. The ISO edition is available here if required.