Can I remove audio description?

Sometimes only the audio described or signed versions of a programme are available on BBC iPlayer. The audio description is built into that version and can't be removed. 

If you can't find the original version of the episode, it's because that version of the programme has expired. The audio described version of a programme is often broadcast a few days after the standard version, so there will be a period where it's the only version available.


Can I switch audio description off if the original version is still available?

Yes, if the original version of the episode you want to watch is still available on BBC iPlayer. 

  • On the BBC iPlayer website
    Switch over to the non-AD version by selecting Turn off Audio Description on the white bar at the top of the playback screen, or deselect 'Audio Described' at the bottom of the playback screen.

    Image of the white Audio Description bar that appears at the top of an AD programme on the website. the 'Turn off Audio Description' button is in bold on the far right.
     
  • On the BBC iPlayer app for mobiles and tablets
    Tap the playback screen to bring up the playback controls. Tap on the speech bubble icon. If the non-AD version of the programme is still available, you'll be able to switch AD toggle off. 

    Image of the playback screen on the iPlayer mobile app. The Audio Description option is highlighted
     
  • On the BBC iPlayer app for connected TVs
    Use your remote to navigate to the accessibility menu on the top left (speech bubble icon). If the non-AD version of the episode is still available, you'll see the option to toggle between the AD or non-AD version.


    Image showing the accessibility menu on the TV app. The Audio Description button is highlighted


The known issues page will indicate if there are any known faults where versions with audio description are available incorrectly instead of a standard version.