Goal
Ensure that users can control audio that plays automatically on a webpage. Users with hearing impairments, cognitive disabilities, or attention challenges must be able to pause, stop, or adjust volume of audio that plays for more than three seconds.
Key Points
- Applies to any audio that plays automatically for more than 3 seconds.
- Provide controls to pause, stop, or mute the audio.
- Audio that is part of a video with captions may be exempt if captions convey the content.
- Background audio or decorative sounds that cannot be turned off may cause accessibility issues.
Short Summary
Automatic audio can interfere with screen readers or distract users. Providing accessible controls ensures all users can consume content without frustration.
Example Issues and Fixes
Autoplay Audio Without Control
Fail
<div class="flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4 p-8">
<audio autoplay src="https://webcontentaccessibility.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/into.mp3" type="audio/mpeg">
</audio>
</div>
Pass
<div class="flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-4 p-8">
<audio controls autoplay src="https://webcontentaccessibility.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/into.mp3" type="audio/mpeg">
</audio>
</div>