With more than 285 million visually impaired people worldwide, entertainment accessibility has never been more important. According to Netflix, in recent years, there has been a 40% growth in content with audio descriptions (AD), demonstrating increased demand for inclusive viewing. But what are audio descriptions, and why are they so important when it comes to film & TV localization? This blog looks at audio description for the blind, its significance, the involvement of translation and localization services, and real-life examples of how the leading streaming platforms and studios are making their content more accessible.
What Does Audio Description Mean in Localization?
Audio description (AD) offers an added narration track that describes the visual elements of a film or TV show. It is a service that makes a product accessible to the blind and low-vision consumers. This is an important part of the localization service, as it provides entertainment access to and through different languages and cultures.
For example, Disney+ has added audio-described films in multiple languages to enable visually impaired viewers globally to immerse themselves in the stories. Top translation companies currently provide AI video description solutions to make AD production efficient in various territories.
The Role of Audio Description in Streaming Platforms
Major streaming services recognize the significance of AD and continue to expand their offerings:
- Netflix: The platform offers AD in multiple languages and allows users to customize their settings. If you’re wondering how to turn on the audio description on Netflix, simply navigate to the audio settings while watching a movie or series.
- Amazon Prime Video: Implements audio descriptions in select content, with an increasing number of localized AD tracks.
- Apple TV+: It integrates AD in over 20 languages, making it one of the most accessible platforms for international audiences.
These efforts highlight the industry’s commitment to translation and localization services for visually impaired audiences.
Why Audio Descriptions Are Crucial in Localization
Localization goes beyond translation—it ensures content is culturally and physically accessible. Audio description, which narrates on-screen visuals for blind or visually impaired audiences, is a key part of this effort. Just as subtitles bridge language barriers, audio descriptions break visual barriers, making media more inclusive.
Subtitling and audio description work together with closed captions, which include non-verbal elements like music, sound effects, and speaker identification. While subtitles serve multilingual audiences, captions and descriptions ensure that individuals with hearing or visual impairments can enjoy the same experience.
At VerboLabs, we specialize in subtitling services that can be integrated with closed captioning and audio description support. This holistic approach helps businesses, educators, and entertainment platforms deliver content that resonates globally while meeting accessibility standards.
By combining these services, localization becomes not just a global communication strategy but also a commitment to inclusivity.
Also read:
- Closed Captioning vs Subtitles: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters?
- Subtitles vs Closed Captions: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use?
1. Enhancing Storytelling for All Audiences
For visually impaired viewers, missing out on crucial visual storytelling elements can be frustrating. Audio description movies ensure that action sequences, facial expressions, and even subtle visual cues are conveyed effectively.
For instance, in Game of Thrones, crucial battle scenes with silent yet intense moments were enhanced for visually impaired viewers through detailed audio description examples that painted a vivid picture of the onscreen events.
2. Meeting Legal and Industry Standards
Many countries now mandate audio descriptions for TV and streaming platforms. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S. requires major networks to provide AD for a percentage of their programming, ensuring equal access for visually impaired audiences. This pushes the best translation companies and studios to incorporate AD as part of their localization services.
3. Expanding Audience Reach and Engagement
By implementing audio descriptions for the blind, content creators tap into a wider audience segment. More accessibility means more viewers, leading to higher engagement rates and improved brand perception. Disney, Netflix, and Amazon Prime have reported increased audience retention due to their efforts in accessibility.
Examples: How Audio Descriptions Enhance Localization
1. Squid Game (Netflix) – Audio Description in Multiple Languages: The global hit Squid Game not only featured subtitles and dubbing but also included audio description examples in English, Spanish, and other languages, ensuring that visually impaired audiences worldwide could follow the intense drama.
2. Marvel Movies – AD for Theatrical Releases and Streaming: Marvel Studios now integrates audio description movie tracks in cinemas and streaming platforms. For instance, Avengers: Endgame featured an AD track that described crucial battle scenes, making it an immersive experience for visually impaired fans.
3. BBC – Leading in TV Audio Description: The BBC has been an early adopter of audio description for TV, with over 20% of its content featuring AD, setting an industry standard for accessibility.
AI and the Future of Audio Description in Localization
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing audio description services. AI-driven tools are making AD more efficient and cost-effective. AI video description software can analyze video content and generate automated narration, reducing turnaround times for localization services.
For instance, YouTube’s AI-generated captions are now extending into audio descriptions for the blind, making video content more accessible without manual intervention.
Additionally, AI-enhanced AD tools are making it easier for smaller studios and translation and localization services to implement accessibility features without excessive production costs. This technology ensures that even independent films can have audio-described films, improving inclusion across the entertainment industry.
Why Every Film & TV Production Needs Audio Description
The demand for audio-described films is rising as audiences become more inclusive. Content creators and best translation companies must integrate AD into their translation and localization services to ensure accessibility for all.
By implementing audio descriptions, studios can:
- Expand their audience base
- Comply with legal accessibility requirements
- Improve user experience and engagement
- Strengthen their reputation as inclusive content providers
With evolving technology and AI enhancements, the integration of audio description for TV and movies will soon become a default industry standard rather than an optional feature.
Conclusion
The definition of localization is evolving beyond mere translation; it is now culturally and physically accessible. What is localization if not a way to make sure that everybody, no matter what their capabilities are, gets to enjoy entertainment?
From Netflix’s audio descriptions to AI-based solutions, the future of film & TV localization revolves around accessibility. Whether you are a filmmaker, streaming platform, or top translation company, AD adoption is no longer a choice but a requirement.
The market is moving towards an accessibility-first strategy. By embracing audio descriptions, studios, and localization service providers can make entertainment more accessible to all audiences worldwide.
Work with Experts in Audio Description and Localization. Are you seeking localization services with professional audio descriptions? VerboLabs offers the best solutions to make your content available globally. Let us know today to find out more!
