We’re committed to making our broadcast and online services as accessible as possible. However, the availability of subtitles and audio described programmes varies between the different versions of BBC iPlayer due to technical limitations.

Subtitles

Subtitles are available for both live TV channel streams* and on-demand programmes (including downloads) on the iPlayer TV app, mobile app and website. 

*There may be times when certain live channels or programmes don't have subtitles available. When this happens, you won't see the subtitles icon on the stream.

Need help using subtitles on BBC iPlayer? Check the following page: How do I use subtitles on BBC iPlayer?

Audio description

Audio described programmes are available to stream but not to download on all versions of BBC iPlayer except Sky On Demand. AD programmes are sometimes broadcast at a slightly later date than the original but still have their own full availability period. AD is also available on live channel streams on the BBC iPlayer website.

Trying to switch off audio description? Check our Can I remove audio description? page for more information.

Signed programmes

Signed programmes are available on all versions of BBC iPlayer. Like audio described programmes, they're sometimes broadcast a few days later than the original but still have their own full availability period.

Trying to switch off sign language? Check our Can I remove sign language?page for more information.