hig-ref

Reference Apple Human Interface Guidelines for cross-platform UI design decisions.

1.1k|81|Updated Nov 30, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/CharlesWiltgen/Axiom --skill hig-ref
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: hig-ref
Source: https://github.com/CharlesWiltgen/Axiom/tree/main/.claude-plugin/plugins/axiom/skills/hig-ref
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/CharlesWiltgen/Axiom --skill hig-ref

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

An exhaustive reference to Apple's Human Interface Guidelines, covering colors, backgrounds, typography, SF Symbols, Dark Mode, accessibility, and platform considerations.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Semantic colors, background color systems, and typography guidance.
  • SF Symbols usage and localization considerations.
  • Accessibility and cross-platform considerations from HIG.

Quick Start

Look up the recommended semantic color for primary text in dark mode.

Frequently Asked Questions about hig-ref

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I choose the right semantic colors for iOS and macOS UI across light and dark modes?

Semantic colors in Apple's HIG provide adaptive color systems that automatically adjust for light and dark modes. Use primary, secondary, and tertiary text colors, plus system backgrounds, to ensure consistency and accessibility across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS without manual mode switching.

What typography and dynamic type settings should I use for accessible cross-platform Apple app design?

HIG typography guidance covers dynamic type scaling, font weights, and size hierarchies that adapt to user preferences across all Apple platforms. Apply these rules to maintain readability and accessibility compliance while supporting user-controlled text size adjustments.

How do I properly render and localize SF Symbols in my Apple platform apps?

SF Symbols are Apple's vector icon system with built-in localization support and platform-specific rendering rules. HIG covers symbol sizing, weight variants, and localization considerations to ensure consistent icon display across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS.

What accessibility requirements must I follow when designing for Apple platforms?

HIG accessibility guidelines cover color contrast, dynamic type support, VoiceOver compatibility, and semantic markup requirements. Applying these ensures your UI meets accessibility standards across all Apple platforms and adapts to assistive technology settings.

How should I handle background color treatments and layering across Apple platforms?

HIG background systems define layering rules, blur effects, and depth hierarchies that work consistently across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. Use semantic background colors and system materials to maintain visual hierarchy and dark mode compatibility.