Making TV more accessible: Audio description and other tools for better viewing

TV and film should be enjoyable for everyone, but if you have sight loss, you may find it harder to follow what’s happening on screen. This guide explains how Audio Description, TV accessibility settings and a few clever tools can help bring your favourite shows to life.

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The Audio Description logo - the letters AD followed by 3 curved lines

What is Audio Description?

Audio Description (AD) is a spoken commentary that describes what’s happening visually in a TV show, film, or live performance. It adds information about settings, actions, facial expressions and scene changes. It is often delivered between lines of dialogue and helps fill in the visual details you might otherwise miss.

How to enable Audio Description on your TV

Each TV is slightly different, but most follow a similar process:

  1. Go to your TV’s Settings menu
  2. Find the Accessibility or Audio options
  3. Toggle Audio Description to the ‘on’ position

Once switched on, AD should stay active until turned off again. Only some programmes include AD, but these are usually marked with an ‘AD’ symbol in the electronic TV guide.

Streaming services with Audio Description
Many streaming apps include AD on a wide range of shows and films. Here’s how to access it:

  • Netflix: Start the programme, click the screen, choose ‘Other’, and select ‘English Audio Description’.
  • Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Channel 4: Play the show, open the audio/subtitles menu, and select the AD version.

Some platforms (like BBC iPlayer and Channel 4) also have dedicated ‘Audio Described’ categories so you can browse AD-enabled content more easily.

TV checklist: small adjustments that make a big difference

If you’re finding it hard to see or hear what’s on TV, a few changes might help:

  • Is your screen too dark or too bright? Try adjusting the contrast or brightness settings.
  • Would a larger screen or sitting closer help?
  • Is there glare from windows or lamps? Try repositioning your TV or light sources.
  • Could headphones make it easier to hear dialogue clearly?
  • Struggling with the remote? Try using high-contrast labels, tactile dots, or easy-to-use remote controls.

TV viewing aids: MaxTV Glasses

Some people find MaxTV Glasses helpful –  they provide hands-free magnification (2.1x) for both eyes and are adjustable. Clip-on versions are also available if you wear prescription glasses. Ask your Sight Loss Advisor if these might suit your needs.

Max TV glasses

TV accessibility features by brand

Samsung

  • Voice Guide reads menus aloud
  • High Contrast Mode adjusts colours
  • Enlarge increases text size
  • Learn Remote speaks out remote functions
  • Audio Description can be enabled in Settings

LG

  • Audio Guidance and Screen Reader read out menus and settings
  • High Contrast and Zoom improve visibility
  • Audio Description supported on most smart models

Apple TV

  • VoiceOver, Zoom, Bold Text and Reduce Motion all help with accessibility
  • Audio Description can be switched on for supported content
  • Use Siri voice commands or triple-click the remote to toggle features quickly

Other brands (Sony, Panasonic, Philips)

  • Most offer Voice Guidance, Magnification, and High Contrast through Accessibility settings
  • Look for ‘Audio Description’ in the Audio menu or Accessibility section

Streaming devices and screen reader compatibility

  • Chromecast: Works with your phone’s screen reader (e.g. VoiceOver or TalkBack); AD available if supported by the app
  • Smartphones and tablets: Most streaming apps are compatible with screen readers and built-in magnification

Need more help?

If you’re unsure where to start, contact us to speak with your local Community Sight Loss Advisor. We can offer advice and help you find solutions that work for you.