Audio Description is a service that provides a succinct and precise account of visual information to people who are blind or have low vision. Audio Description (AD) has other terms, including: video description, descriptive video, descriptive video service (DVS), described video, English descriptive video, video translation, descriptive audio, described narrative, visual description, and visual translation. In 2020 the World Blind Union and the FCC passed legislation to make “Audio Description” the official term to be used in the United States.

 

 AD may be written and provided for almost any vision-related experience. Art, education, culture, live events, video games, live performances, web content, media, film, and television all can be described. For performances, the descriptive narrative is inserted during the natural pauses between dialogue, song lyrics and sound effects. AD informs the listener about facial expressions, body language, physical comedy, dance movements, costumes, changes of scene, and other visual information crucial to understanding and experiencing the performance. AD can provide the blind or low vision patron more complete and satisfying access to society and culture.

 

AD can be scripted and pre-recorded or performed live. For theater performances, live events narrated in real time, and in movie theaters, AD is often transmitted and heard through an earpiece receiver. It is added to broadcast TV, Blue-Ray/DVDs, and streaming services as a narration track, and may also be available through mobile apps. In exhibitions, installments, museums, and parks, AD can be narrated live by a docent or can be part of a pre-recorded audio / virtual tour.

 

There is almost no limit to what description could do for both blind and sighted listeners. Even beyond the blind community, this evolving art is proving to be a valuable tool in expanding literacy and cultural consciousness. Globalization and the concept of universal design increase awareness of accessibility as a human rights issue. Audio Description gains more and more traction in the mainstream population as technology, regulations, and understanding move forward.