Deactivating the blind tone: How to deactivate the audio description on the TV

The blind tone tells you what can be seen on the television screen. Of course, the audio description can also be switched off if you do not need the explanations.

Switch off the blind tone via the button or menu

The audio description transforms a film into a “radio film” suitable for the blind - similar to an acoustic subtitle. In a nutshell, the audio description explains central elements of the plot as well as gestures, facial expressions and equipment. The image descriptions are inserted in the dialog breaks.

• An audio description can be received with any (current) television or receiver. An additional device is not necessary. The only requirement for receiving the blind tone is digital reception.
• Since the audio description broadcasts an extra sound track in addition to the actual sound track, it is possible to activate and deactivate this second sound track. The procedure for switching off the blind tone differs depending on the TV and receiver model.
• The setting in the menu depends on the device, the reception route and the provider. Basically, the audio description can be activated / deactivated via a special button on the remote control or via the menu of the TV / receiver. For example, this key can be labeled “AD”, “SUBT” or two speech bubbles.
• If there is no such button, the blind tone can be deactivated via the audio, options or main menu.

Deactivate audio description on devices from certain manufacturers

Here we describe the procedures for common TV models.

• If you have a Samsung Smart TV, you can deactivate the audio description using the "AD / SUBT" button on the remote control. Press the button and you will get to the "Accessibility" mode. There you can switch off the audio description under "Audio for the visually impaired" or switch it on again if necessary.
• If there is a LG TV in your living room, you can find the option to deactivate it under Home -> Accessibility -> Audio Description.
• With a Philips device, switch off the blind tone using the "Menu button". There, go to "Settings" and select "Audio language" to deactivate the option.
• On Sony TVs you will find the deactivation function via the "Home button". If you have pressed this, select Channel settings -> Digital settings -> Audio description.