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WCAG 2.1

1.2.1 Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)

Level A success criterion

Provide alternatives for prerecorded audio-only and video-only content. Audio needs a text transcript; video needs either a transcript or audio description.

Why it matters

Deaf users cannot hear audio content, and blind users cannot see video-only content. Alternatives ensure everyone can access the information.

Common violations

  • Podcasts without transcripts
  • Background music videos without descriptions
  • Audio announcements with no text alternative
  • Silent instructional videos without narration or transcript

Code examples

Bad

<audio src="podcast.mp3" controls></audio>

Good

<audio src="podcast.mp3" controls></audio>
<a href="podcast-transcript.html">Read transcript</a>

How to fix

Provide text transcripts for audio content and either audio descriptions or text transcripts for video-only content.

Related criteria

Related resources

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