Ääniselostus

Ääniselostus is an accessibility feature that provides spoken narration describing visual elements in films, television programs, and other media. The narration explains setting, actions, characters, on-screen text, and important non-dialogue sound cues so that viewers who are blind or have low vision can follow the story. The original dialogue and soundtrack remain audible, and the description is designed to be concise and integrate smoothly with the existing audio.

The primary purpose of ääniselostus is to increase access and comprehension for visually impaired audiences, enabling independent viewing and broader participation in media. It is used across public broadcasting, feature films, streaming services, and educational media, and can also assist people in complex or unfamiliar visual environments. It complements other accessibility features such as captions and sign language interpretations.

Production and style involve a specialized ääniselostaja or narrator who writes a concise script aligned to the program’s timeline. Descriptions are typically in the present tense, focusing on relevant visual information and avoiding repetition of spoken dialogue. The narration is then recorded and mixed at a level that fits within the program’s soundscape, with descriptions inserted during natural pauses or quiet moments. Care is taken to describe essential details without distracting from the plot or characters’ voices, including notable text on screen and graphical elements when relevant.

Formats and delivery include additional audio tracks on broadcast, streaming, or physical media, and sometimes dedicated AD (audio description) screenings in cinemas. Availability varies by country and service, and viewers usually select the AD track via audio settings. Ongoing development aims to expand coverage and improve quality and consistency.