platform-guideline checked

Apple Human Interface Guidelines: Toolbars

Describes top or bottom toolbars as view-level containers for current title, navigation controls, search, actions, and overflow while distinguishing them from tab bars for switching app areas.

Open source

Pattern Decisions This Source Supports

Pattern Supported decision Required contract Claim note
Header / top app bar Choose a header/top app bar when each screen needs a current title plus view-level actions such as search, share, edit, save, or overflow. The title in the bar must match the rendered content or current route. Apple toolbar guidance distinguishes view-level title, navigation, search, actions, and menus from tab-bar destination switching.
Toolbar Choose toolbar when a persistent view-scoped command surface groups several related controls for repeated use. The toolbar has a clear accessible name and visual scope tied to the current view, selected objects, or editor surface. Apple HIG supports view-level toolbar content, actions, overflow behavior, and distinction from tab bars.

Evidence Role

This source is treated as platform-guideline evidence. Use it to validate the decision rules above, not as a visual style reference.

Publisher: Apple Developer. Last checked: .