Error state.
A view explaining a failed operation and recovery.
See it in context
What it is
An error state replaces or accompanies content that could not be obtained. It should state what happened in understandable terms, preserve useful context, and offer a realistic next step.
When to use it
Use when the current task cannot complete as expected.
Know the difference
An error state describes a failed view or operation; an inline field error concerns a specific input.
Across platforms
iOS · iPadOS · macOS · watchOS · tvOS · visionOS
Use the native platform presentation and terminology; adapt density and interaction to touch, pointer, remote, or spatial input rather than copying a phone-sized view.
Web · Android · Windows · Linux · Wear OS · Android TV
On the web, announce meaningful status changes without moving focus. On Android and desktop, keep messages near the relevant operation and follow the platform’s notification conventions.
Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.