Web Video Text Tracks (WebVTT) is a text-based subtitle format used primarily on the web for displaying timed text tracks such as subtitles and captions. It works with the HTML5 <track> element and is widely supported across web browsers and media players. The format allows for text formatting and positioning.
History
The development of Web Video Text Tracks (WebVTT) began around 2010, led by the Web Hypertext Application Technology Working Group (WHATWG) as part of their efforts to support new HTML5 video standards. The goal was to create a flexible and robust alternative to existing formats like SubRip (SRT), while addressing the needs of modern web applications. The specification for WebVTT was first drafted by WHATWG and later standardized by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). WebVTT has undergone several revisions to enhance its capabilities, including support for text formatting, positioning, and metadata. The format became a W3C Candidate Recommendation in April 2019, reflecting its maturity and wide adoption. WebVTT has been widely adopted by major platforms and browsers, including YouTube, Vimeo, and various HTML5 video players. This widespread support and versatility have solidified WebVTT as a standard for web-based subtitles and captions.
