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Perceivable
WCAG 1.4.2
Level A

What is Audio Control?

Audio that plays automatically for more than three seconds must provide controls so users can pause, stop, or adjust volume.

Users should never be trapped by sound they cannot easily control.

Screen reader users.
People in quiet environments.
Anyone who needs predictable media behavior.

Improves Accessibility
Media Control
Better User Experience
Supports Compliance

Good vs Bad Examples

Use the tabs to compare controlled audio with autoplaying audio.

Audio with controls

Good example of Audio Control.

html

<audio controls src="song.mp3"></audio>

Why this is correct:

Provides visible pause and volume controls.
Lets users stop unexpected sound.
Supports WCAG 1.4.2.

Implementation Checklist

Progress0 / 6 completed (0%)

Auto-playing audio has controls.
Users can pause, stop, or adjust volume.
Audio does not surprise or trap users.
Controls are visible and usable.
Audio that exceeds 3 seconds is controlled.
QA verifies autoplay behavior.

Knowledge Check

Answer Yes or No to test your understanding of audio control.

Score: 0 / 5 · Answered: 0 / 5

Should audio longer than three seconds have controls?

Can users be trapped by auto-playing audio?

Should audio controls be visible and accessible?

Does WCAG 1.4.2 cover audio control?

Is system volume alone enough for page audio?