HTML: audio

The <audio> element embeds sound and can provide native playback controls.

What you will learn

How to embed audio with controls
How to provide a source and fallback message
Why transcripts and user controls matter

Minimal example

<audio controls>
  <source src="podcast.mp3" type="audio/mpeg">
  Your browser does not support audio playback.
</audio>

The controls attribute lets users play, pause, seek, and change the volume. The text inside the element is a fallback for unsupported browsers.

Provide a transcript

For spoken content, provide a text transcript near the player. A transcript helps people who cannot hear the audio and users who need to search or read quietly.

Autoplay and accessibility

Do not start sound unexpectedly. Autoplay can be disruptive and browsers may block it. Let users choose when playback begins and provide a clear pause control.

Common mistakes

Do not remove native controls unless the custom player is fully accessible.
Provide a fallback format or message when practical.
Do not rely on audio alone to communicate important information.