logo

TikTok Tests Auto Caption Function To Make Videos More Accessible For Hard Of Hearing And Deaf Users

author
Apr 09, 2021
06:00 A.M.
Share this pen
FacebookFacebookTwitterTwitterLinkedInLinkedInEmailEmail

TikTok is making the platform more accessible to users by introducing close captioning to allow hard-of-hearing and deaf users to use the app more conveniently.

Advertisement

Soon TikTok creators will be able to add automatically generated captions to their videos on the app to allow for greater accessibility. Tiktok is not the only app to have added auto-captions, with several other platforms pushing for increased accessibility.

"The Washington Post" reported on how some deaf creators have found social media to be "frustratingly inaccessible for millions of Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing." And in a world where there are billions of social media users, to be included is important.

TikTok To Adopt Automatic Captions

Photo by Olivier Bergeron on Unsplash

Photo by Olivier Bergeron on Unsplash

Advertisement

The new option to apply auto-captions to a video will appear on the editing page once a video has been recorded or uploaded to the site.

TikTok says that they are going, beginning with offering the subtitles in American English and Japanese at first. However, the 'coming months" will see other languages become available.

Photo by Olivier Bergeron on Unsplash

Photo by Olivier Bergeron on Unsplash

The video-sharing platform is adding the feature to make videos easier to watch by hard of hearing and deaf individuals. It will allow users to read or listen to content as they scroll.

Advertisement

Accessibility On Tiktok

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

This is not the first feature for increased accessibility that TikTok has included on the app to improve users' experience.

The popular platform offers text-to-speech. For users who may be photosensitive, the app allows users to skip photosensitive content; it will also warn creators when their content may include photosensitive elements.

Photo by visuals on Unsplash

Photo by visuals on Unsplash

Advertisement

Among other platforms that have recognized the importance of having captions include Zoom, and Google Meet, while Instagram offers captions for Reels and IGTV. Instagram is looking into subtitles for its Stories.

The Need For Accessibility

Photo by Firmbee.com on Unsplash

Photo by Firmbee.com on Unsplash

More than ever, people are on their phones and laptops consuming audio-visual content on Netflix, Youtube, and other platforms. For many people, this isn't just for entertainment, but jobs have moved online. It's become integral to many daily lives as millions of Americans log in to enjoy a good old video online or work.

Unfortunately, those with visual and audio impairments may face barriers to getting the experience of what's become a regular feature of life. Though captions and accessibility may not be new, the call for a social media platform to be more inclusive has been persistent with a slow response.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts

Duck Nails: Why They Are Popular & How to Create Yours with Ease

August 27, 2023

How to Store Makeup Brushes and Clean Them Effectively

July 20, 2023

How to Achieve Stunning Digital Lavender Nails at Home

August 31, 2023

First Date Tips to Help Leave a Pleasant Impression

September 13, 2023

10 Flared Leggings Types for Comfort - Styling Tips Included

October 12, 2023

Hip Bone Piercing: Essential Aftercare Tips to Prevent Post-procedure Complications

July 10, 2023

Decoding the Mid-Size Body Type: Fashion Insights and Must-Haves

August 28, 2023

What Is a Short-Term Relationship & How to Determine If It Is Right for You?

September 04, 2023

Lip Flip: The Benefits of the Procedure & the before and after Results

September 28, 2023

Jojoba Oil for Nails: Discover the Benefits of This Natural Nail Care Solution

August 17, 2023

Butterfly Haircut for Thin Hair: Perfect for At-Home Styling

July 13, 2023

Navigating the Talking Phase and Signs It Is Going Well

July 27, 2023

What Is Grayromantic and How Is It Different from Aromanticism?

July 24, 2023

Are Claw Clips Bad for Your Hair? Exploring the Benefits & Easy Hairstyles

August 03, 2023