Identify the access format first
AMI explains that its open description is always on. This differs from another broadcaster offering a separate optional description track on selected programmes. The same remote setting cannot remove narration that is already mixed into the sound.
Listen for the kind of information being added: actions, expressions, locations or text on screen. That supports following the picture. It is not the same as a spoken menu, a translation or captions.
Integrated description can sound different
Some accessible originals build visual context into what presenters and guests say. A cooking host can describe an action as part of the demonstration instead of leaving it for an extra narrator. The absence of a separate descriptive voice does not by itself mean the programme lacks description.
Judge whether the essential action is understandable through sound. If a visual step remains unclear, note the exact moment and missing information. That example is more useful than trying to count narrator sentences.
Choose a route that suits the whole household
Where description is optional, select the actual available audio track. Where it is open, accept that the service is intentionally presenting that mix. If another version is desired, look for an officially identified alternative programme version rather than assuming a player setting can manufacture one.
Keep captions separate from this decision. A viewer can need readable dialogue and audible visual context at the same time. If reporting an issue, specify description, captions or menu speech so the response addresses the right access feature.
Use a short scene as the comparison
Choose a scene with an action that is not explained in dialogue, such as someone silently entering a room or a presenter displaying an object. Note what the audio communicates. Then check the actual channel identity and any available audio choices. If it is an open-described AMI presentation, the descriptive content is expected within that sound.
If it is another service with two explicitly named tracks, compare the same scene on each. Do not infer the track’s purpose from a number such as “Audio 2” alone; the programme or broadcaster’s description may be needed. A numbered option can identify a language or mix instead.
For an access report, give the scene, selected track label and missing information. A precise account such as “the displayed instruction was never spoken” explains the barrier more clearly than a broad complaint that narration sounded different.
Related questions
Can turning captions off remove description?
No. Captions are text; described video is audio.
Does open description mean the player is faulty?
No. It is an intentional accessible presentation format.
Sources and scope
Scope notes distinguish published documentation, supplied information and editorial methods. They do not report a hands-on service test.
- AMI frequently asked questions — Meaning of described video and always-on open description versus optional description on other services.
- AMI-tv — Official English accessible television remit, open and integrated described video.
