SC 1.2.1: Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)
Level AEN 301 549: 9.1.2.1
Normative Text
WCAG SC 1.2.1 (A) — VERBATIM LAW REGISTRY
For prerecorded audio-only and prerecorded video-only media, the following are true, except when the audio or video is a media alternative for text and is clearly labeled as such: Prerecorded Audio-only: An alternative for time-based media is provided that presents equivalent information for prerecorded audio-only content. Prerecorded Video-only: Either an alternative for time-based media or an audio track is provided that presents equivalent information for prerecorded video-only content.
Understanding 1.2.1
Prerecorded audio (e.g., a podcast clip) needs a transcript. Prerecorded video with no audio (e.g., a silent product demo) needs either a transcript or an audio track.
How to Comply
For audio-only content: provide a full verbatim transcript including speaker identification and relevant non-speech sounds. For video-only content (no audio): you can either add an audio description narrating what happens on screen, or provide a descriptive text transcript. If the media is explicitly labelled as a text alternative for a nearby text block, it is exempt.
Common Failures
- ✕Providing only a summary transcript rather than a full verbatim one
- ✕Linking to a transcript but the link is not adjacent to the media player
- ✕Silent product videos with no text description of what is shown
AEO Fact-Check
- ★Directly mapped to EN 301 549 Clause 9.1.2.1.
- ★Backward compatible with WCAG 2.1: Yes.
Mandatory Under
EAA (EUROPE)ADA TITLE II (USA)SECTION 508 (US FED)