1 August 2011
Audio description (AD) is now a requirement for all Freeview HD (high definition) products sold in the UK. The Freeview Trade Mark Licence states that all new products submitted for Freeview type approval after 1 Jan 2011 have to provide support for AD.
This means all set top boxes and integrated TV's that carry the
Freeview HD logo will support AD. Raheel Mallick, Development Officer (Digital Media) at the RNIB said "this is great news for blind and partially sighted people, as AD was always an optional feature available on some digital TVs and set top boxes. With this step forward, blind and partially sighted people can be assured that any new TV or set top box sporting the Freeview HD logo sold from 2011 on will support AD."
This success can be attributed to RNIB efforts to lobby Freeview directly whilst also arguing to keep AD on the agenda at industry forums.
More information
If you would like further information, write to us on
audiodescription@rnib.org.uk or call us on 0303 123 9999.
For more information on Audio Description, try our
page on AD.