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Don't auto-play audio for more than 3 seconds without a way to stop it.
Why it matters: Auto-playing audio interferes with screen reader speech output.
If any audio on a Web page plays automatically for more than 3 seconds, either a mechanism is available to pause or stop the audio, or a mechanism is available to control audio volume independently from the overall system volume level.
What This Means: This success criterion requires that if audio content plays automatically for more than 3 seconds, users must have a way to pause, stop, or control the volume independently from the system volume. This prevents auto-playing audio from interfering with assistive technologies and allows users to control their audio environment.
Why It's Important: Auto-playing audio can interfere with screen reader speech output, making it difficult or impossible for screen reader users to access content. It can also be disruptive for users with attention disorders, cognitive disabilities, or anyone who needs to control their audio environment. Providing controls allows users to manage audio according to their needs.
If you include auto-playing audio (background music, narration, sound effects), provide visible pause/stop controls that are easy to find and use. Alternatively, provide independent volume control that doesn't affect the system volume. Audio that plays for 3 seconds or less is exempt, as is audio that the user initiates. Ensure controls are keyboard accessible and clearly labeled.
This criterion ensures that screen reader users can access and understand the content, improving their overall experience and ability to use the website effectively.
This criterion ensures that users with attention disorders can access and understand the content, improving their overall experience and ability to use the website effectively.
Impact: When this criterion is properly implemented, it removes barriers for these user groups and creates a more inclusive web experience for everyone.
Background music starts automatically and plays continuously with no way to stop it.
<audio src="background-music.mp3" autoplay loop></audio>Audio has visible controls allowing users to pause, stop, or adjust volume.
<audio src="background-music.mp3" controls></audio>This success criterion benefits the following user groups:
Tip: Use this checklist during development and testing to ensure all requirements for 1.4.2 Audio Control are met. Check off items as you complete them.
Note: These are official W3C resources for 1.4.2. For the most up-to-date information and detailed technical guidance, always refer to the official W3C documentation.
Implementing 1.4.2 Audio Control correctly requires understanding your specific context. Code solutions vary significantly based on multiple factors:
HTML, React, Vue, Angular, PHP, Python, and other frameworks each have different patterns and best practices.
Server-side rendering, client-side rendering, static generation, and hybrid approaches require different solutions.
Your existing components, styling approach, and UI library influence how accessibility must be implemented.
Your specific user base, content type, and interaction patterns determine the most appropriate implementation.
We provide tailored implementation guidance by analyzing your specific technology stack, coding patterns, design system, and project requirements. Our team reviews your codebase and provides custom solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing architecture.
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1.4 Distinguishable