Graceful degradation

A design strategy in which web content built with newer or advanced technologies continues to function and remain accessible when those technologies are not supported by a user's browser or assistive technology. Under WCAG 2.0, technologies that are not accessibility-supported may be "used but not relied upon" — meaning the content must remain fully accessible and functional without them. This contrasts with progressive enhancement, which starts with a baseline accessible experience and layers on advanced features. Both approaches aim to ensure that all users can access core content regardless of their technology environment.