Netflix has introduced a feature aimed at enhancing user experience, particularly concerning subtitle options. Traditionally, when users attempt to view content, they are required to select the closed captions setting.
These captions provide subtitles for spoken dialogue while also including descriptions of various sounds, such as [phone buzzing] or [dramatic music swells], among others. These audio descriptions are essential for accessibility, catering to viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing (SDH/CC) by offering greater context regarding scenes. However, some viewers may find the comprehensive sound descriptions excessive, leading Netflix to roll out a new subtitle option that centers exclusively on spoken dialogue.
The timing of this feature coincides with Netflix’s focus on the practicalities of using subtitles in noisy settings or for those who prefer watching while others are asleep. A recent survey by Preply indicated that 50% of Americans often utilize subtitles, primarily due to challenges in hearing dialogue in contemporary TV shows and films. A linguistics expert noted that subtitles can significantly aid comprehension, especially for language learners. As highlighted by Techradar, many scenes in films and series are quite silent, making subtitles an essential tool.
Users now have the flexibility to choose between two subtitle formats: English, which features only spoken dialogue, and English (CC), which includes a combination of dialogue and sound effects. There are plans to broaden this feature to include more languages in the future.
Currently, the dialogue-only subtitles option is available exclusively for the fifth season of the psychological thriller series, You. While this may seem like a small change, it is expected to be well-received by many users. Additionally, Netflix is exploring a new search engine powered by OpenAI’s technology to assist viewers in discovering shows and movies tailored to their preferences.
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