WCAG 1.2.4: Captions (Live)
WCAG 1.2.4 Captions (Live) is a level AA success criterion from WCAG 2.0. Live video with audio needs captions. A launch livestream or a live shopping hour is included.
Deaf viewers cannot follow a live host.
How to test
Start the stream and confirm a caption track appears within a few seconds of speech.
How to fix
Use a captioning service or the platform's live caption feature, and keep a person checking names and prices.
Example that fails
A live sale on Instagram embedded with no captions.
Example that passes the check
The live player shows captions and the host repeats prices aloud.
Shopify
If you embed a live shop, choose a host with live captions and link the captioned player from the theme, not a silent embed.
WooCommerce
Embed the captioned live player in a page, and do not autoplay it.
WordPress
Use an embed that exposes the live caption control. Test it before the event.
Wix
Use a video app that supports live captions rather than a raw embed with no track.