audioguide

An audioguide is a portable device or software application that delivers recorded narration to accompany a visit to a museum, gallery, historic site, or other cultural attraction. Its content typically includes descriptions of exhibits, contextual information, artist or architect notes, timelines, and thematic storytelling, often available in multiple languages.

Historically, audioguides were standalone handheld players rented at the entrance, sometimes using cassette or CD media. With digital technology, many guides are now compact digital devices or smartphone apps that can be downloaded or streamed. Modern systems may offer language selection, skip and rewind functions, transcripts, and accessibility options such as high-contrast text or sign-language videos. Some guides use proximity sensors, RFID, or GPS to trigger audio content automatically as visitors approach exhibits or move along a route.

Formats and delivery methods vary from dedicated hardware to web-based or app-based tours. Content can be offline to reduce connectivity needs, and may include maps, wayfinding, and supplementary multimedia. In addition to museums and galleries, audioguides are used for city tours, archaeological sites, and heritage trails, providing flexible, self-directed learning experiences.

Advantages of audioguides include improved accessibility for multilingual and visually or cognitively diverse visitors, enhanced engagement through narrated context, and the ability to explore at one's own pace. Limitations can include device costs, maintenance and hygiene concerns, reliance on battery life, and potential distraction from viewing exhibits.

See also: audio tour, mobile guide app, museum technology.