Twitter Adds Auto Captions for More Accessible Videos

Twitter Introduces Automatically Generated Captions for Videos

Twitter has begun deploying automatically generated captions for videos across its platform. This new functionality is designed to enhance accessibility for users who are deaf or hard of hearing.

These auto-generated captions will be available on the web, as well as on iOS and Android devices. Support will be provided in over 30 languages, encompassing widely used options like English, Spanish, Japanese, Arabic, Thai, Chinese, and Hindi, among others.

Captions and the New Vertical Video Feed

The introduction of auto-captions is particularly timely given Twitter’s recent testing of a new vertical video feed. This feed aims to emulate the experience offered by platforms like TikTok, presenting users with algorithmically curated content, including videos, one at a time.

In feeds of this nature, captions have become a standard expectation. They facilitate easier consumption of video content in public settings where headphone use may not be practical.

Limitations of the Auto-Captioning Feature

Unlike captioning features found on TikTok and Instagram Reels, Twitter’s auto-generated captions will not be editable by users. This means that any inaccuracies within the automated transcriptions cannot be corrected.

Users will be unable to manually refine the captions to ensure greater accuracy.

Increased Focus on Accessibility

This move reflects a growing emphasis on accessibility at Twitter. Dedicated accessibility teams were established in September 2020, responding to prior criticism regarding the lack of accessibility features in new products.

Previously, users had voiced concerns about the introduction of voice tweet functionality without accompanying auto-captioning options.

Expanding Caption Support

While video captioning is a recent addition, Twitter had already implemented captioning technology within its live audio chatrooms, known as Twitter Spaces.

Data Retention Policies for Twitter Spaces

The company confirms that it maintains an audio recording of each Space, inclusive of the generated captions, for a period of thirty days. This retention period allows for review of content to ensure compliance with Twitter’s guidelines.

Should a violation be detected, these records will be held for an additional ninety days, providing speakers with an opportunity to appeal any decisions made.

Ongoing Challenges with Platform Abuse

Despite these efforts, concerns remain regarding the effectiveness of Twitter’s measures to address abuse on its platform. Users of Twitter Spaces have reported encountering harmful content, including Spaces featuring racist titles, even after reporting them.

Simon Balmain, a Twitter community manager, has acknowledged the issue and stated that the company is actively working on solutions. However, details regarding any planned expansions to the existing reporting system or data retention policies have not yet been released.