Warn users before opening a new tab

An unexpected new tab can confuse users.

First consider whether a new tab is necessary.

If needed, announce this behavior before activation.

Add “Opens in a new tab” beside the link name.

An icon alone may not be clear to everyone.

Screen readers should receive the warning too.

Do not rely only on a mouse-hover tooltip.

Activate the link using a keyboard.

Check that the warning matches its actual behavior.

Keep similar link behavior consistent across the site.

Official sources

• W3C WAI — G201 New window warning