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Html5 check if audio is playing?

html
responsive-design
javascript
best-practices
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Jan 3, 2025
TLDR

To know if audio is currently playing in your HTML5 application, examine the paused property of HTMLAudioElement in JavaScript:

var audio = document.getElementById('myAudio'); console.log(audio.paused ? 'Audio is paused' : 'Audio is playing');

In this context, if audio.paused is false, it means the audio is playing.

In-depth understanding of HTML5 audio status

Hovering around audio-based web applications, the playback status reflects a pivotal role in user interaction and responsive design. Stirring from the JavaScript standpoint, a handful of DOM properties and events are available to fine-tune the audio playing status.

Playback stage tracking

Apart from audio.paused, you could eyeball audio.currentTime and audio.ended. These properties convey if the audio is at the start line, midway, or crossed the finish line.

if (!audio.paused) { console.log('Audio is playing.'); } else if (audio.ended) { console.log('Audio has finished its marathon.'); } else if (audio.currentTime > 0) { console.log('Audio is paused but has run a few laps.'); } else { console.log('Audio is yet to start the race.'); }

Roll the applause when ready

Before ringing up the playback, make sure your audio is ready to rock. The attribute HTMLMediaElement.readyState communicates whether the audio is good to go.

if (audio.readyState > 2) { console.log('Audio is like an artist ready to perform.'); } else { console.log('Audio is not yet done with its sound check.'); }

Detect playing and pause events

For a dynamic response tune in to the playing and pause events. Interpret your audio's story through each play and pause:

audio.addEventListener('playing', () => { console.log('First chord struck, Audio is playing.'); }); audio.addEventListener('pause', () => { console.log('Guitar slides, Audio is paused.'); });

Pack it in a function

Canvas the status checks in JavaScript functions. Use this audit function to confirm if the audio is performing:

function isAudioPlaying(audioElement) { if (!audioElement.paused && audioElement.readyState > 2) { return true; // The audio is playing because it is not paused and is ready. } return false; // Otherwise, the band hasn't come on yet. }

Deep dive into mastery

Unit melodies or orchestras?

Have multiple audio tracks echoing at the same time? Harness document.getElementsByTagName('audio') and roll through the NodeList to examine each audio element.

Play and pause on a whim

Amplify user interaction with a play/pause toggle. This function will start or stop the music depending on the current playback status of the audio Element like a seasoned DJ.

function toggleAudioPlayback(audioElement) { if (isAudioPlaying(audioElement)) { audioElement.pause(); // Dj stops the track } else if (audioElement.readyState > 2) { audioElement.play(); // Dj spins the disk } }

Exception handling: All ears for surprises

When you compose a symphony along with audio status checks, always stay alert for surprises. Network oopsies, decoding tantrums, or source file dramas can put the brakes on your playback. Bullet-proof your code with try-catch safesets:

try { toggleAudioPlayback(audio); // Trying to play or pause } catch (error) { console.error("DJ's console got stuck:", error); // Houston, we have a problem! }

A grand musical UX

For a concerto-like user experience on your website, consider layering UI frosts such as progress trackers, volume twisters, and visual equalizers for a fine-tuned user interaction and robust feedback.