Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)
Summary:
WCAG 1.2.1, "Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)," targets the accessibility of media content that is either audio-only or video-only. This guideline ensures that such content is accessible to users with hearing or visual impairments.
What:
This criterion requires providing an alternative for prerecorded audio-only and video-only content. For audio-only, this means providing a text transcript or a video that shows what’s being said. For video-only, a text description or audio track that explains what’s happening is needed.
Why:
These alternatives are essential for making content accessible to all users. A deaf user might miss audio information, while a blind user might not get the visual context. Providing textual or auditory alternatives ensures everyone has access to the information.
Examples and Scenarios:
- Podcasts (Audio-only): Offering a text transcript of the spoken content.
- Silent Animation (Video-only): Providing a descriptive text or an audio track that narrates the visible actions.
- Fitness Videos (Video-only): Including an audio description of the exercises being demonstrated.
How to Comply:
- Websites: Add text transcripts for audio-only content and descriptive text or audio tracks for video-only content.
- Mobile Apps: Ensure any in-app audio-only or video-only content is accompanied by appropriate alternatives.
- Software Applications: Similar to websites, include accessible alternatives for any media content that is audio-only or video-only.
Exceptions:
- Alternative Content Available: If the same information is available in text form elsewhere on the site or application, separate alternatives for audio-only or video-only content might not be necessary.
- Media as Art: If the media is intended as an art form or for entertainment without a specific informational purpose, strict alternatives might not be applicable.