Advanced Television

Netflix adds audio descriptions

April 15, 2015

Netflix is making its content more accessible for blind and visually-impaired subscribers.

The streaming service is introducing audio descriptions that describe “what is happening on screen, including physical actions, facial expressions, costumes, settings and scene changes”. Customers can choose to use it as they would a foreign language soundtrack.

The new service began rolling out in the US and Canada this week, and will be available in the UK soon, with Orange is the New Black, House of Cards, Marco Polo, Daredevil and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt among titles to be added.

In a blog post, Netflix said: “Netflix is actively committed to increasing the number of audio-visual translations for movies and shows in our English-language catalogues. Over time, we expect audio description to be available for major Netflix original series, as well as select other shows and movies. We are working with studios and other content owners to increase the amount of audio description across a range of devices including smart TVs, tablets and smartphones.”

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