WCAG 2.0 · Level A · Perceivable
WCAG 1.2.1 — Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)
Prerecorded audio-only content needs a transcript; prerecorded video-only (silent) content needs a transcript or audio track describing it.
WCAG 1.2.1 at a glance
Level A · Principle: Perceivable · Added in WCAG 2.0. Level A is the minimum — failing it blocks some users entirely.
What it means
Prerecorded audio-only content needs a transcript; prerecorded video-only (silent) content needs a transcript or audio track describing it.
Who it helps
Deaf and hard-of-hearing users (audio), and blind users (silent video).
Common failures
- A podcast or audio clip with no transcript
- A silent explainer animation with no text alternative
How to meet WCAG 1.2.1
- Provide a full text transcript for audio-only media
- Provide a text or audio description for video-only media
How to test it
Manual — confirm a transcript/alternative exists and is accurate.