Icon button.
Uses a symbol to perform a compact action.
See it in context
What it is
An icon button saves space for familiar commands such as search, share, or close. A recognizable symbol does not remove the need for an accessible name or an adequate hit area.
When to use it
Provide a clear accessible label and a tooltip when the icon may be unfamiliar.
Know the difference
A decorative icon is not interactive; an icon button is a focusable command.
Across platforms
Web
Use a native button for an action and an anchor for navigation. Preserve keyboard activation and a visible focus indicator.
iOS · iPadOS · Android
Provide a comfortable touch target, use familiar system symbols when appropriate, and show a clear pressed or selected state.
macOS · Windows · Linux
Keep pointer, keyboard, and focus behavior consistent. Common commands can additionally expose a menu item or keyboard shortcut.
watchOS · Wear OS
On a watch, use a short label and a generous target within the small display. Crown or rotary input can supplement touch for adjustable values.
tvOS · Android TV
On TV, give the focused control a prominent visual state and support remote activation; hover and precise pointer targeting are not assumed.
visionOS
In spatial interfaces, use a comfortably targetable control with a clear focus response for indirect gaze-and-pinch interaction.
Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.