Definition
Closed captions are timed text that represents spoken dialogue and relevant sounds in a video, and can be turned on or off by a viewer where supported. They improve access for people who are deaf or hard of hearing and help in muted environments. Captions should be checked against the finished audio.
Scenario in a product workflow
A tutorial caption track should include the spoken instruction and meaningful sounds such as a notification that signals success. It should not cover the button being named. Review the track at phone size and correct any product terms that speech recognition misheard.
How to apply it
Check captions against the final audio and include meaningful non-speech sounds when needed. Do not assume an auto-generated transcript is accurate enough to publish.
A practical review
Compare each caption cue to the final audio, include meaningful sound information and keep lines readable at phone size. Check speaker identification and ensure the captions do not obscure the product controls being explained.
A decision to make before production
Review captions against the final mix, not an earlier script, and include meaningful non-speech audio. Check readability on the smallest target screen and verify that captions do not mask controls being discussed.
How it differs from subtitles
Captions represent dialogue and relevant sounds, supporting access for viewers who cannot hear the audio. Subtitles often translate or transcribe dialogue and may omit sound cues. Platform conventions differ, so check the destination's terminology.
When a team uses the term “closed captions” in a brief or review, agree on the intended meaning before production. That prevents the script, visual plan and success measure from drifting apart.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
How is closed captions different from subtitles?
Captions represent dialogue and relevant sounds, supporting access for viewers who cannot hear the audio. Subtitles often translate or transcribe dialogue and may omit sound cues. Platform conventions differ, so check the destination's terminology.
What should a team check when using closed captions in a product video?
Check captions against the final audio and include meaningful non-speech sounds when needed. Do not assume an auto-generated transcript is accurate enough to publish.
Make your next product video with DemoVexa
Download the app to make a video from your code, or start a free trial with 15 renders.