How to Enable Subtitles for Every Video on YouTube
How to Enable Subtitles for Every Video on YouTube
Subtitles and captions play a crucial role in making video content accessible for a broader audience. Unfortunately, not all videos on YouTube come with built-in subtitles. However, with a few simple steps, you can enable subtitles for every video you watch. This guide will walk you through the process.
Enable Captions in Settings
YouTube’s automatic captioning feature can help you enjoy videos even when subtitles are not available. Here’s how you can turn on automatic captions:
Watch a YouTube video – Open any video on YouTube.
Access the Settings – Click on the gear icon in the lower right corner of the video player.
Turn on Automatic Captions – From the dropdown menu, select the option to turn on automatic captions. If a video already has automatic captions, you can toggle this option on or off.
Use the YouTube App
The YouTube mobile app also offers an easy way to enable captions. Here’s how it works:
Watch a video on the YouTube app – Open the app and tap on a video to bring up the control menu.
Access the Three Dots Menu – Tap on the three dots in the upper right corner of the video screen.
Select Subtitles – From the pop-up menu, select the option to show subtitles.
Browser Extensions for Subtitles
There are browser extensions that can force captions on videos that don’t have them. These extensions enhance the functionality of YouTube and can be a lifesaver when you need subtitles immediately. Here are a couple of popular options:
Subtit – Subtit is a free extension that adds subtitles to YouTube videos by fetching captions from external sources.
Caption Pop – Caption Pop is another browser extension that automatically fetches and displays subtitles for YouTube videos.
Installation instructions are typically straightforward, and you’ll find detailed guides on these extensions’ respective websites.
Accessibility Settings on Your Device
If you rely on captions for accessibility, checking your device’s accessibility settings can also be helpful. Here’s how to do it on a few common devices:
Android
Go to Settings.
Select Accessibility.
Find and select Captions.
Turn on the subtitles option.
iPhone/iPad
Go to Settings.
Select Accessibility.
Scroll down to Subtitles Captions.
Turn on the subtitles option.
Alternative Services
If YouTube’s automatic captions or the browser extensions don’t work for you, there are third-party websites that can help. Some popular options include:
Amara – Amara allows you to subtitle videos and is often used by creators to add subtitles to their content.
Subtit Horse – Subtit Horse provides a platform for users to find and contribute subtitles to YouTube videos.
These websites often require you to have a basic understanding of the language used in the video, but they are a great resource for users who need subtitles urgently.
Important Notes
Note that not all videos have subtitles available, especially those that are newly uploaded or in less common languages. If the video you’re watching doesn’t have subtitles, you may need to use a third-party service to create your own subtitles.
By following these steps, you should be able to enjoy videos with subtitles on YouTube, making your viewing experience richer and more accessible.