What is the function of a visual regression test?

The function of a visual regression test revolves around identifying unintended changes in the visual appearance of an application. This type of testing ensures that any updates, new features, or bug fixes introduced into the application do not adversely affect its existing visual elements. By taking baseline screenshots and comparing them against the current state of the application, visual regression tests can highlight differences that may indicate problems such as layout issues, color changes, or incorrect rendering of UI components.

This process is crucial for maintaining the quality and consistency of the application's user interface across various updates and can help catch potential problems before they reach the end user. Therefore, the focus of visual regression testing is centered on preserving the intended visual design and ensuring that any modifications do not negatively impact the user experience.