WCAG (Level AAA) SC 1.4.7 Low or No Background Audio (w3.org)
Issue description
WCAG 1.4.7, “Low or No Background Audio” addresses the challenges that background audio can create for users with cognitive disabilities or those who rely on assistive technologies.
Many websites use background audio, such as music or ambient sounds, to enhance the atmosphere or create a mood. However, this can pose accessibility issues for some users:
- Distraction and cognitive overload: Background audio can be distracting and make it difficult for users with cognitive disabilities, such as ADHD or autism, to focus on the content. It can also interfere with their ability to process information.
- Interference with assistive technologies: Background audio can compete with screen readers or other assistive technologies, making it difficult for users to hear the audio output of these tools.
- Comprehension difficulties: For users with auditory processing disorders, background audio can make it harder to understand spoken content or distinguish important sounds.
Benefits
- Improved focus: Reducing or eliminating background audio can help users with cognitive disabilities focus on the content and avoid sensory overload.
- Enhanced comprehension: It can make it easier for users with auditory processing disorders to understand spoken content.
- Better compatibility with assistive technologies: It prevents interference with screen readers and other assistive technologies.
While this is a Level AAA criterion, meaning it’s a higher level of accessibility, it’s an important consideration for creating an inclusive online experience for everyone. This guideline requires that if background audio is present, it should be kept at a low volume or provide a mechanism for users to turn it off completely. This allows users to control their auditory environment and avoid distractions or interference.
Related requirements
The following WCAG source criteria are often related to this as well. They can provide additional insights into specific challenges you may be encountering.
Who this issue impacts
Follow the links for additional information on user impairments:
Suggestions for remediation
Remediating WCAG 1.4.7, “Low or No Background Audio” involves ensuring that users have control over any background audio on your web page, particularly for users with cognitive disabilities or those who use assistive technologies. Here’s how:
Provide controls
- On/Off control: Offer a clear and easily accessible control to turn the background audio off completely. This could be a simple “mute” button or a toggle switch.
- Volume control: Provide a separate volume control specifically for the background audio, allowing users to adjust it independently from the overall system volume.
Minimize background audio
- Keep it low: If you must use background audio, keep the volume low so it doesn’t interfere with the main content or assistive technologies.
- Use subtle sounds: Choose ambient sounds or music that are not distracting or jarring.
Consider alternatives
- Visual alternatives: If the background audio is intended to create a mood or atmosphere, consider using visual alternatives, such as color schemes.
- Text transcripts: If the background audio contains important information, provide a text transcript as an alternative.
User preferences
- Remember user choices: Store the user’s audio preferences (e.g., muted or low volume) so they don’t have to adjust the settings each time they visit the page.
Testing
- Assistive technology testing: Test the page with screen readers to ensure the audio controls are identified and usable.
- User testing: Conduct user testing with people with cognitive disabilities to get feedback on the accessibility of the background audio.
Example
If your website has background music, you can:
- Add a mute button: Include a clearly labeled button that allows users to mute the music.
- Provide a volume slider: Include a slider that allows users to adjust the volume of the music independently.
- Reduce the default volume: Set the default volume of the music to a low level.
By following these practices, you can create a more inclusive and accessible experience for all users, including those who are sensitive to background audio or rely on assistive technologies.
