Accessibility

Are programmes with sign language available?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:50:44 +0000

Are programmes with sign language available?

Signed programmes are available. To find them, head to the Signed category. You can find categories on the homepage of the iPlayer website, in the Explore tab on the mobile app, or in the left-hand menu on the TV app.

On the TV and mobile/tablet app, the speech bubble on the playback page will also allow you to switch to the signed version of the programme, if available. On the website, the sign language option can be found underneath the programme description.

On the �� iPlayer website, you'll see a white banner at the top of the screen when you've selected to watch a programme with Sign Language.

To switch off Sign Language, you can either click 'Turn off Sign Language' on the white banner, or click on Sign Language underneath the playback screen.

Please note that the on-screen signer cannot be removed from signed versions of programmes.

Unable to remove sign language? Have a look here for more information: Can I remove sign language?

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Why are there no subtitles on �� iPlayer via Apple TV?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:42:28 +0000

Why are there no subtitles on �� iPlayer via Apple TV?

There are technical challenges associated with delivering subtitles to Apple TV which will require a significantly different solution to that which we use on all other platforms.

If you require subtitles, please access iPlayer on another device. For example, using iPlayer on the television to which your Apple TV is connected.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Accessibility help with playing audio and video content (including using screen readers)

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:50:44 +0000

Accessibility help with playing audio and video content (including using screen readers)

We’re committed to making our broadcasts and online services as accessible as possible, including the �� media player which is used for playing audio and video content across the ��. The media player is constantly evolving and has been built following the principles of inclusive design so everyone, regardless of disability, can enjoy on-demand and live content from the �� across desktop, tablet and mobile. This page outlines how people can use the player and its accessibility features.

Subtitles, audio description and sign language

We aim to provide subtitles, audio description and programmes in British Sign Language for as much content as possible across as many devices as possible. This will vary according to the product (i.e. News, iPlayer, Sport etc.) and is also dependent on device support. Currently, subtitles are offered for on-demand programmes across �� iPlayer and for live programmes on the �� iPlayer website and TV app.

When subtitles are available, look for the Speech bubble icon in our apps and on the �� iPlayer website. It’s located within the player control bar. Just select the icon to switch them on and off. You can choose the size of subtitles if using the �� iPlayer website and TV app.

When subtitles are switched on you can expect to see them at all times including when more information is presented at the bottom of the screen such as 'More episodes like this' or 'More news items like this'. Also, when available, you can expect to see different colours used for different speakers making it easier to follow the conversation. Subtitles may move around to allow important parts of the video to remain visible, such as faces, text, or action that is important to see when watching the programme.

Audio description and BSL content can be accessed from links in the page outside the player when they are available. �� iPlayer has dedicated categories where you can find Audio Described and Signed content, and on the mobile/tablet app they can be accessed, where available, using the speech bubble icon on the playback page. �� iPlayer accessibility help provides more information around subtitles, audio description and signed content.

Keyboard

The media player is fully keyboard accessible allowing users to tab around the player controls both in the page and in full screen. Use Enter to activate buttons or space bar when playing media in full screen. Use the arrow keys to increase or decrease the volume as well as forward and rewind the timeline. Buttons have clear highlighted states to support navigation regardless of whether you are using a mouse, keyboard or other means of input.

Our new media player offers further keyboard support. For more information, check the following page: What are the new playback controls for �� iPlayer on the website?

Screen readers

We have built in accessibility from the outset and will continue to make the media player progressively more accessible to screen reader users as it evolves. The accessibility of the player may, however, be affected due to changes in versions of the media player, the browser or the screen reader. While some issues are within our control others may be down to third-party partners, including media player or browser vendors and the screen reader. We research, user test and carry out technical testing regularly in order to ensure accessibility continues to be maintained and that we are giving people what they need.

Screen reader support

The media player is optimised to work with the following screen readers and browser combinations:
The latest two versions of NVDA on Windows with Internet Explorer and Firefox
iOS 12.0 or above using VoiceOver
The latest two versions of Mac OS X VoiceOver with Chrome and Firefox when using our HTML5 Player.

Other screen readers may work, but we don’t test against them and so are unable to offer support.
How to access the media player

If you are using Jaws and it works for you, you’ll need to disable Virtual Cursor mode. NVDA users should enable focus mode. Keyboard commands are:
Tab - to move forward through the buttons
Shift + Tab - to move backwards through the buttons
Arrow keys - to increase/decrease the volume and fast forward and rewind
Spacebar or Enter - to activate buttons
ESC - to exit full screen
Known issues

In full screen, using all versions of Jaws and IE8 as well as NVDA the names of the buttons are not read out. This is an issue with Jaws and IE8, and NVDA. The buttons can be reached by triggering ESCAPE and accessing them via the player in the page.

Please read the following page for advice on what you need to do to keep enjoying our content if you are dependent on Flash for accessibility features: Why am I seing an error message when I try to play �� audio and video?

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Why are the subtitles delayed or out of sync?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:43:36 +0000

Why are the subtitles delayed or out of sync?

For most programmes that are pre-recorded, we create the subtitles in advance. A technician uses the audio and picture to sync them up with what’s happening on screen.

For a programme that’s broadcast live (like the news or Strictly Come Dancing) or close to live (like Have I Got News for You or The Graham Norton Show), subtitles will be generated as it's being broadcast. This means you’ll often notice a delay when watching these programmes, be it live or on demand. We can sometimes replace live subtitles a short time after the broadcast, although this isn't always available.

If you spot a programme with out-of-sync subtitles, check our known issues page to see if we already know about it. If not, please get in touch and we’ll check.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Are subtitles available on live channels?

Heather.Moore — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 13:45:51 +0000

Are subtitles available on live channels?

Subtitles are available for our live TV channel streams on the �� iPlayer website only (except on Internet Explorer). This is a trial which is available on all channels apart from �� Parliament, �� Alba and S4C. We hope to roll out this functionality to the �� iPlayer apps in the future.

Heather.Moore 02 October 2020

How do I use subtitles on �� iPlayer?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:43:36 +0000

How do I use subtitles on �� iPlayer?

You can get subtitles on programmes you watch on the �� iPlayer website and apps, including programmes you download.

The icon to select subtitles is a speech bubble which you'll see on the playback screen. On the website and TV app, you can choose the size of the subtitles to suit your needs. We’re planning to bring this feature to the �� iPlayer mobile/tablet app in the future.

�� iPlayer app on connected TVs

Start playing an on-demand programme or live stream
Bring up the playback menu (you can use the enter/select, play/pause or arrow/direction buttons on your remote)
Use the arrow/direction button then the enter/select button to select the speech bubble icon at the top left of the screen. You can also choose the 'Subtitles on/off' button underneath the playback bar to quickly switch on/off subtitles.

In the subtitle menu within the speech bubble, you can switch subtitles on and off, and you can also adjust the size.

You can turn off subtitles in the same way. We’ll remember your subtitle preferences until you switch off the device, or turn off or change subtitles.

�� iPlayer website on a computer, mobile or tablet

Start playing a live or on-demand programme (you might see a trailer first)
Click on the subtitle (speech bubble) icon at the bottom right corner of the playback screen
The toggle will switch to pink when subtitles are on, and the speech bubble will be white.

You can change the size of subtitles at any time via the subtitle icon.

�� iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets

Start playing an on-demand programme
Tap anywhere on the playback screen to display the playback options.
Tap on the speech bubble on the top right

You'll see a few accessibility options: AD, SL and Subtitles. There is a toggle next to each one. To switch on subtitles, tap the toggle and it will switch to pink. You can switch subtitles off in the same way.

Are subtitles available on downloaded programmes?

Yes - just download the programme you want to watch and follow the steps above for the mobile/tablet app.

Are subtitles available on live channels?

Yes! Subtitles are available on all live �� channels, although there may be some exceptions on our non-English speaking channels (�� Alba and S4C).

Whilst we try to make subtitles available on as many browsers and operating systems as possible, there are times when this isn't possible, particularly on older devices.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Are programmes with audio description available?

Anonymous — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:35:03 +0000

Are programmes with audio description available?

Audio described programmes are available. To find them, head to the Audio Described category. You can find categories on the homepage of the iPlayer website, in the Explore tab on the mobile app, or in the left-hand menu on the TV app.

On the TV and mobile/tablet app, the speech bubble on the playback page will also allow you to switch to the AD version of the programme, if available. On the website, the audio description option can be found underneath the programme description.

On the �� iPlayer website, you'll see a white banner at the top of the screen when you've selected to watch a programme with audio description.

To switch off Audio Description, you can either click 'Turn off Audio Description' on the white banner, or click on Audio Described underneath the playback screen.

Unable to switch off Audio Description? If you can't find the original version of the episode, it's because that version of the programme has expired. The audio described version of a programme is often broadcast a few days after the standard version, so there will be a period where it's the only version available.

Unable to find the AD versions of Silent Witness on the iPlayer TV app? Check the following page for more info: Why can't I find audio described versions of Silent Witness on iPlayer on my TV?

Anonymous (not verified) 04 October 2023

What devices support accessibility features?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:45:45 +0000

What devices support accessibility features?

We’re committed to making our broadcast and online services as accessible as possible. However, the availability of subtitles and audio described programmes varies between the different versions of �� iPlayer due to technical limitations.

Subtitles

Subtitles are available for on-demand programmes and downloads (where available) on:

�� iPlayer app on mobiles and tablets
�� iPlayer app on most connected TV devices
�� iPlayer app on games consoles
�� iPlayer website on computers and laptops
�� iPlayer website on mobiles and tablets
BT Vision
Chromecast (black & white subtitles only)
Freesat G2
Sky On Demand (programmes broadcast since 26 October 2020)
Sky Q (via the �� iPlayer app)
Virgin Media TiVo
YouView

We’re working on making subtitles available on Apple TV (4th Generation).

Subtitles on live TV channels

Subtitles are available on our live TV channel streams on the �� iPlayer website and on our TV app.* This is a trial which is available on all channels apart from �� Parliament, �� Alba and S4C. We hope to roll out this functionality to the �� iPlayer mobile/tablet app in the future.

*Whilst we try to make subtitles available on as many browsers and operating systems as possible, there are times when this isn't possible, particularly on older devices.

Need help using subtitles on �� iPlayer? Check the following page: How do I use subtitles on �� iPlayer?

Audio description

Audio described programmes are available to stream but not to download on all versions of �� iPlayer except Sky On Demand. AD programmes are sometimes broadcast at a slightly later date than the original but still have their own full availability period.

Trying to switch off audio description? Check our Can I remove audio description? page for more information.

Signed programmes

Signed programmes are available on all versions of �� iPlayer. Like audio described programmes, they're sometimes broadcast a few days later than the original but still have their own full availability period.

Trying to switch off sign language? Check our Can I remove sign language? page for more information.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

What accessibility features are available in �� iPlayer?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:46:29 +0000

What accessibility features are available in �� iPlayer?

Our commitment and feedback

�� iPlayer is built so that all users can enjoy �� on-demand and live content across desktop, tablet and mobile regardless of what access technology they might use or how they access content. We have built in accessibility from the outset and take feedback into account.

As is often the case, there are some known issues which we are working to address in order to continue to improve user experience. Some issues we are able to address fully ourselves while others are dependent on browsers, third-party media players, or access technology software which we are working with service partners to address.

Hearing feedback from you and other users is invaluable and really helps us better understand how to make �� iPlayer more usable.

Media player

The ��’s standard media player is used by �� iPlayer across desktop, mobile and tablet. It has been built with accessibility from the outset and offers clearer visual design for buttons, good contrast, and keyboard and mouse accessible tooltips. Work has also gone into improving subtitles as well as technical improvements to support screen reader users. Our Accessibility help playing audio and video content (including screen readers) page has more details about this and other accessibility improvements.

JavaScript

It is not possible to embed the media player in the page without the use of JavaScript; as such �� iPlayer is exempt from the requirement for all core functionality to work without JavaScript.

Subtitles, sign language and audio description

The vast majority of our on-demand content is subtitled and can be accessed from within the media player once playback has started by selecting the speech bubble icon. You can toggle on/off subtitles, Audio Description and Signed (if available). You can choose the size of subtitles if using the �� iPlayer website or TV app. You can read more about this here: How do I turn subtitles on or off?

We’re trialling subtitles on our live TV channel streams on the �� iPlayer website (except on Internet Explorer) and our TV app. They're available on all channels apart from �� Parliament, �� Alba and S4C. We hope to roll out this functionality to the �� iPlayer mobile/tablet apps in the future.

Sign language and audio described programmes can be found in the Signed and Audio Described categories accessed via the �� iPlayer Categories menu. You can also search for your favourite programme and select the Sign Language or Audio Described toggle underneath the playback area. The speech bubble on the TV and mobile/tablet app will also show AD and Signed options.

Learn more about what devices support subtitles, sign language and audio described programmes in the following page: What devices support accessibility features?

Keyboard access

As a keyboard, keypad or non-mouse user you can expect to be able to navigate to and use all functionality within the site. As well as ensuring a logical content and focus order, we have added visible focus states so you can see where you are, as well as provided skip links.

All bbc.co.uk content has skip links at the start of the page to ‘Skip to main content’ and to go to ‘Accessibility help’. These links are visible when tabbed to for the benefit of any sighted user with a keypad or keyboard.

The media player also has two skip links: one to ‘Jump the media player’ and move keyboard/keypad focus to just after the player. The other is a link to ‘Screen Reader Help’. The second link contains information about accessibility features and how to access the player using screen readers.

Our new media player offers further keyboard support. You can find more information on this on the following page: What are the new playback controls for �� iPlayer on the website?

Screen reader support

As a screen reader user you can expect to be able to navigate content using standard screen reader shortcuts for headings, links, landmarks, form fields etc. across desktop, tablet and mobile:

Headings: All pages have a single ‘heading level one’ before the start of the main content and ‘heading level two’ for sub-content. Aside from headings relevant to page content, each page also has the same framework of heading level twos for ‘Accessibility links’, ‘�� Channels’, ‘iPlayer Navigation’, ‘Categories’, ‘Language and Location’ and ‘Help and Tools’.
Landmarks: Landmarks work in the same way as headings except they jump between parts of the page such as the main content, �� and �� iPlayer navigation and footer information. Each landmark has its own heading to help identify what it is.
Lists: All programme titles and episode information are presented in lists grouped under headings.
Alternatives for images: All images have an accessible alternative.

Further information, help and support can be found in our accessibility help pages.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Can I remove audio description?

Anonymous — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 13:46:29 +0000

Can I remove audio description?

Sometimes only the audio described or signed versions of a programme are available on �� iPlayer. The audio description is built into that version and can't be removed.

If you can't find the original version of the episode, it's because that version of the programme has expired. The accessible version of a programme is often broadcast a few days after the standard version, so there will be a period where the AD or sign language versions are the only versions available.

For more information on signed programmes on iPlayer, have a look here: Are programmes with audio description available?

Can I switch audio description off if the original version is still available?

Yes, if the original version of the episode you want to watch is still available on �� iPlayer.

On the �� iPlayer website
Switch over to the non-AD version by selecting Turn off Audio Description on the white bar at the top of the playback screen, or deselect 'Audio Described' at the bottom of the playback screen.
On the �� iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets
Tap the playback screen to bring up the playback controls. Tap on the speech bubble icon. If the non-AD version of the programme is still available, you'll be able to switch AD toggle off.
On the �� iPlayer app for connected TVs
Use your remote to navigate to the accessibility menu on the top left (speech bubble icon). If the non-AD version of the episode is still available, you'll see the option to toggle between the AD or non-AD version.

The known issues page will indicate if there are any known faults where versions with audio description are available incorrectly instead of a standard version.

Anonymous (not verified) 03 October 2019

Accessibility

Are programmes with sign language available?

Why are there no subtitles on �������� iPlayer via Apple TV?

Accessibility help with playing audio and video content (including using screen readers)

Subtitles, audio description and sign language

Keyboard

Screen readers

Why are the subtitles delayed or out of sync?

Are subtitles available on live channels?

How do I use subtitles on �������� iPlayer?

�������� iPlayer app on connected TVs

�������� iPlayer website on a computer, mobile or tablet

�������� iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets

Are subtitles available on downloaded programmes?

Are subtitles available on live channels?

Are programmes with audio description available?

What devices support accessibility features?

Subtitles

Subtitles on live TV channels

Audio description

Signed programmes

What accessibility features are available in �������� iPlayer?

Our commitment and feedback

Media player

JavaScript

Subtitles, sign language and audio description

Keyboard access

Screen reader support

Can I remove audio description?

Can I switch audio description off if the original version is still available?

Why are there no subtitles on �� iPlayer via Apple TV?

How do I use subtitles on �� iPlayer?

�� iPlayer app on connected TVs

�� iPlayer website on a computer, mobile or tablet

�� iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets

What accessibility features are available in �� iPlayer?