Audio-Only Content
Audio-only media refers to digital content, such as podcasts and MP3s audio files, that typically provides information using speech, music and sound effects. In order for individuals without hearing or have limited hearing to access the information, content creations must provide an alternative that presents equivalent information for prerecorded audio-only content.
To make audio-only digital content accessible, provide a transcript of the audio content. For more information see Creating Accessible Captions and Transcripts.
Video-Only Content
Video-only media refers to digital content, such as video without sound or silent animations, that typically provides information using video, animation, and onscreen text. In order for individuals without vision or have limited vision to access the information, content creations must provide an alternative that presents equivalent information for prerecorded video-only content.
To make video-only digital content accessible, provide either a text description of the video content, or an audio track that presents equivalent information. A text description for video-only content would be similar to a transcript with written audio descriptions, and an audio track would be narration that text description. For more information see Creating Accessible Captions and Transcripts and Audio Descriptions.
Synchronized Media
Synchronized media, also referred to as multimedia or “video,” combines several media, such as audio and visual, to convey information and must conform to different standards than audio-only and video-only media. For more information, see Synchronized Media.
Media Players
Digital media content, whether audio-only, video-only, or synchronized media requires a way to control the playback of that media. These media players must be tested to ensure they are accessible to people with disabilities and conform with applicable Section 508 Standards. For more information, see Guide to Accessible Web Design & Development, Timed Events.
Reviewed/Updated: May 2024
