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Level AWCAG 2.0

1.2.1 Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)

An alternative is provided for prerecorded audio-only and video-only content.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 1.2.1

This criterion ensures that people who cannot hear (deaf or hard-of-hearing users) can access the information in audio-only content through a text transcript, and that people who cannot see (blind or low-vision users) can access the information in video-only content through a text description or audio track. It targets standalone media (a podcast, a voicemail greeting, a silent product demo video) that is not already paired with synchronized captions or narration.

How to Meet It

For prerecorded audio-only content (e.g., a podcast), provide a text transcript that includes all spoken words and relevant non-speech sounds. For prerecorded video-only content (e.g., a silent screen-capture demo), provide either a full text transcript describing the visual events in sequence, or a separate audio track that narrates what is happening. Link the transcript clearly next to the media player.

Code Examples

INCORRECT
<audio src="podcast-episode-12.mp3" controls></audio>
CORRECT
<audio src="podcast-episode-12.mp3" controls></audio>
<p><a href="/transcripts/podcast-episode-12.html">Read the full transcript of this episode</a></p>

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a video with no dialogue but background music need a transcript?

Yes, if the video conveys information visually (e.g., a demo or tutorial), it needs a text alternative or audio narration describing the visual content, even if there's no spoken dialogue.

Is this the same as adding captions?

No. Captions (1.2.2) are for media that already has both audio and video. 1.2.1 covers content that has only one channel (audio-only or video-only), so there's nothing to caption; instead you provide a full alternative.

Related Success Criteria

1.2.2 Captions (Prerecorded)1.2.3 Audio Description or Media Alternative (Prerecorded)1.2.4 Captions (Live)1.2.5 Audio Description (Prerecorded)

Quick Facts

  • Criterion1.2.1
  • LevelA
  • IntroducedWCAG 2.0

Automate Compliance

AccessiSight automatically scans and identifies 1.2.1 issues in your codebase.

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