To turn off the voice on YouTube TV, which usually refers to the Audio Description narration or a screen reader like TalkBack, you need to access the accessibility settings directly within the video player.
Understanding Voice Features on YouTube TV
The "voice" you're hearing on YouTube TV typically falls into one of two categories, both designed to enhance the experience for users with visual impairments:
- Audio Description: This feature provides an additional narration track for on-screen actions, scenes, and visual elements that aren't conveyed through the regular dialogue. It describes what's happening visually in a program.
- TalkBack (or similar screen reader): If you're navigating the YouTube TV app interface and hearing verbal cues for buttons, menus, and options, this is likely a screen reader feature enabled at the system level (e.g., on an Android device or Smart TV). It assists users in navigating without visual input.
Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling Voice Features
Disabling these voice features is a straightforward process within the YouTube TV app. Follow these steps while a video is playing:
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Open Your Desired Video:
- Begin by opening the show or movie you wish to watch on YouTube TV. The voice setting is specific to the video player interface.
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Access the Settings Icon:
- While the video is playing, click on the "Settings" gear icon. This icon typically appears in the video player controls when you tap the screen or move your cursor.
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Navigate to Accessibility:
- From the options that appear in the settings menu, select "Accessibility." This section is dedicated to features that help users with various needs.
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Toggle Off Voice Options:
- Within the "Accessibility" menu, you will find options such as "Audio Description" or "TalkBack."
- To turn off the narration that describes the scene, toggle off "Audio Description."
- If you're experiencing verbal feedback while navigating the app, look for and toggle off "TalkBack" (or a similar screen reader option, depending on your device and operating system).
- Within the "Accessibility" menu, you will find options such as "Audio Description" or "TalkBack."
Quick Reference Table
| Feature Name | Description | How to Disable |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Description | Narration of visual elements and scenes in a program, common for movies/shows. | Toggle off in Settings > Accessibility while a video plays in YouTube TV. |
| TalkBack / Screen Reader | Verbal feedback for app navigation, button presses, and menu selections. This can be a system-wide setting. | Toggle off in Settings > Accessibility (within YouTube TV or your device's system settings). |
Additional Considerations and Troubleshooting
If the "voice" persists after checking the in-app settings, consider these points:
- Device-Level Accessibility: For features like TalkBack, the setting might be enabled at your device's operating system level (e.g., Android, Roku, Smart TV OS). Check your device's general Settings > Accessibility menu to ensure no screen reader or text-to-speech features are actively enabled there.
- Content Specific: Audio descriptions are not available for all content. If you only hear it on specific programs, it's likely an Audio Description track provided by the content creator for that particular show or movie.
- Restart App/Device: Sometimes, simply restarting the YouTube TV app or your streaming device can resolve minor glitches or apply new settings correctly.
For more in-depth support on YouTube TV features, you can always visit the YouTube TV Help Center.
