Should webpack DevServer automatically hide its HMR script from screen readers?

The Case for Opt-In Accessibility

Webpack DevServer should not automatically add aria-hidden="true" to its injected-hot-module-replacement (HMR) script. While the intent—to reduce noise for assistive technologies—is valid, default behavior in browsers already ensures these scripts are non-intrusive.

Current Behavior vs. Intent

In standard browser implementations, <script> elements are not part of the sequential focus navigation. Screen readers generally ignore these elements unless a developer has explicitly given them a tabindex or a specific role. Because the HMR script is not focusable by default, it does not currently interfere with the experience of screen reader users.

Potential Risks of Automatic Hiding

• Debugging Interference: Some developers relying on screen readers or specialized assistive tools to navigate the DOM and inspect WebSocket connections or HMR state might find the script inaccessible if it is forcibly hidden.
• Tooling Conflicts: Automated modification of injected code can occasionally interfere with custom browser extensions or internal testing tools that rely on the presence of these scripts to verify the environment state.

Recommended Approach: Configurable Flags

The most robust architectural decision is to provide a configurable opt-in flag rather than changing the global default. This allows teams with strict accessibility audit requirements to silence the script without breaking the workflow for those who need it visible.

If you need to implement this, the configuration should ideally be placed within the devServer object in your webpack configuration:

// Example of a manual override via template if needed
module.exports = {
  devServer: {
    devTemplate: (htmlParams) => {
      // Custom logic to inject aria-hidden if a specific flag is set
    }
  }
};

To provide a more specific recommendation for your environment, are you experiencing the HMR script being announced by a specific screen reader during development?