Along with the <video> element, we also have an <audio> element that works very similarly. However, this particular success criteria isn’t talking about that, at least not exclusively.
Unexpected audio can be quite shocking for users. It doesn’t really matter if the music is a soft ambient melody. It also doesn’t matter if it’s a harsh explosive sound. It can cause issues for the user. For folks who have a sound sensitivity, not being able to control sounds causes problems. This can include persons with ADHD, Autism, hearing issues, vestibular disorders (my personal combo). They may have Hyperacusis (I do), but may not.
Hyperacusis
Hyperacusis is a disorder of the ear where every day sounds can become problematic. According to WebMD, it is considered “rare” at a rate of 1 in 50 thousand people have it. Tinnitus is a symptom, but you can have that without hyperacusis.
Hyperacusis comes in a few varieties. Loudness hyperacusis is a sensitivity that makes your head and ears feel full that can cause migraines. Pain hyperacusis (noxacusis) is a varietal that induces pain and discomfort to the user when the sound is heard. This often feels like stabbing or pins in the ears. Both occur when the volume of the sound is at a level considered “normal” for most people.
In addition to hyperacusis, your user may have a general intolerance to sounds humans often find annoying. These include car alarms, sirens, and barking, to name a few.
Other Disorders
There’s also misophonia and phonophobia. For the most part these are anxiety based reactions that tend to be treated well using CBT style therapy.
Summary
Unexpected sounds can be quite problematic for folks. If the sound plays over 3 seconds it needs to have controls to pause or stop it. Avoid using unexpected sounds. Keep the volume reasonable. And it is always best to tie sounds to user action as it can be less shocking.
Have some thoughts? Want to discuss this further? Find me on Bluesky and LinkedIn to chat!
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