Navigation / The visual dictionary
Tab bar.
A persistent set of peer destinations represented by tabs.
Also calledtabsbottom tabs
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UI illustrationSee it in context
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What it is
A persistent set of peer destinations represented by tabs. Keep destination order stable and clearly indicate the selected section.
When to use it
Use it for a small set of main app areas that people switch between repeatedly.
Know the difference
A tab bar switches peer destinations; a segmented control usually changes a local view or value.
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Across platforms
WebiOSiPadOSAndroidmacOSWindowsLinuxwatchOSWear OStvOSAndroid TVvisionOS
Web · iOS · iPadOS · Android · macOS · Windows · Linux · watchOS · Wear OS · tvOS · Android TV · visionOS
Phone tabs often sit at the bottom; tablet and desktop placements can adapt, and watch navigation needs fewer destinations.
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Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.