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The best text to speech tools in 2024 (free & paid), share this article.

Thanks to incredible advancements in AI technology, text to speech software in 2023 is now sounding less and less like a robot – and more like a human reader.

This is great news for any Creator Educators looking to make their content creation process more efficient, without compromising on quality.

Text to speech apps can take your content from dull to dynamic in just one step, helping to transform boring text into natural-sounding audio that improves accessibility, productivity and engagement for learners.

Use text to speech software to open up new revenue streams for your business by transforming your existing content into videos and audio, as well as helping to make your content accessible for everyone. With these tools, you can create professional-sounding audio content in a fraction of the time you’d spend recording yourself. It’s a win-win!

Here’s our top list of the best text to speech software to help grow your business in 2023.

Click the links below to skip ahead:

• Standard TTS vs Neural TTS

The best text to speech software in 2023

Amazon polly, google cloud text-to-speech, microsoft azure speech, natural reader, voiceovermaker, why use text to speech software.

If you’re a Creator Educator looking to convert your text content into audio for videos, audiobooks, social media and more, it’s time to find text to speech software for your business.

Here are some of the top use cases for businesses:

• Enhance accessibility: Use text to speech software across all your content to boost accessibility for all learners and customers
• Convert education content to audio: Make your educational content accessible for learners who are visually impaired, dyslexic, or who learn better with audio
• Add voiceovers to presentations: Bring your content alive by adding professional voiceovers to slides and animations
• Create audiobooks: Open up a new revenue stream by capturing sales from learners who prefer to listen rather than read
• Make content more engaging: Enhance your existing content with more video elements to improve the learner experience
• Repurpose blogs: Turn blog content into narration for engaging videos on YouTube, social media, and more

Turn text into speech to instantly repurpose your existing content into new formats and make sure your content is accessible to all.

Standard TTS vs. Neural TTS

Before diving into the world of text to speech, here’s a quick look at the difference between standard and neural text to speech tools.

• Standard TTS is the older approach to text to speech software. If you think of artificial, stiff-sounding text to speech audio, you’re thinking of standard TTS.
• Neural TTS draws on neural network technology or AI to generate more natural-sounding, humalike speech. Don’t let that creep you out, though – neural TTS can create truly lifelike and listenable audio that cuts out a major chunk of time for businesses and creators, helping you reach more people with your content.

Check out these best text to speech apps in 2023 to create stunning audio content – while saving you essential time and energy.

Best paid text to speech software

The best all-round cloud-based text to speech software for Creator Educators

Pricing Options

• Standard TTS: Up to 5 million characters per month for 12 months
• Neural TTS: Up to 1 million characters per month for 12 months
• Standard TTS: $4 per 5 million characters
• Neural TTS: $16 per 1 million characters

Reasons to buy

• Choose from 100+ voices across 36 languages
• Stream converted speech audio on the go, without downloading files
• Use Speech Marks to sync text and audio

Consistently ranked by users as the best option for text to speech software, Amazon Polly is one of the best TTS tools for generating natural-sounding audio content. Thanks to advanced AI and deep learning technology, Amazon Polly helps creators get high-quality, human-like audio that can be rolled out to a global audience. Choose from both standard and neural services to create your audio – and since it’s pay-as-you-go, there’s no need to worry about subscription fees draining your bank account when it’s not being used. 

Amazon Polly also includes the handy Speech Marks feature, a tool that allows you to match your AI-generated audio with text so learners can follow along with your voiceover. 

Try Amazon Polly

The best alternative with wide range of voices and languages to choose from

• 60 minutes per month
• Standard TTS: $4 per 4 million characters
• 380+ voices in 50+ languages and variants
• Personalize pitch with 20 semitones
• Option to create a one-of-a-kind voice

As a close competitor to Amazon Polly, Google Cloud Text-to-Speech offers a comprehensive range of features as part of its text to speech software that lets you customize and control every aspect of your audio. Use voice tuning to personalize the pitch of your selected voice and use SSML tags to add pauses, numbers, and other pronunciation notes to create content that flows.

Google’s text to speech software makes use of their DeepMind speech synthesis expertise to deliver over 380 human-quality voices across a wide range of languages – ideal for tapping into a global audience with your content. Google’s TTS tool also has a custom voice generator that lets you create a unique voice for your brand – that no one else can use.

Try Google Text-to-Speech

The best choice for better data security and compliance

• Neural TTS: Up to 0.5 million characters per month
• Standard TTS: 5 audio hours per month
• Custom TTS: $24 per 1 million characters
• Better data security and privacy than other TTS apps
• Zero code options available
• Create and adapt custom voices for your brand

Take advantage of Microsoft’s AI-driven text to speech software and use their wide range of in-built features to help your content stand out from the crowd. Build your own custom voice and choose between different emotions and speaking styles to craft the perfect personality for your brand. This tool is also ideal for adapting your speech content to different use cases like customer support chatbots and educational content. Their no code tools also mean you don’t need to be a tech expert to take advantage of their top features.  

There’s good news if you’re concerned about data security too – Microsoft’s text to speech tool comes in top for security and compliance. You don’t need to worry about speech inputs being logged during processing and you can breathe easier knowing Microsoft invests heavily in cybersecurity and privacy.

Try Azure Speech Services

The best choice for AI-powered video voiceovers

• Up to 10 mins of voice generation per month
• Starting at $39/month for 4 hours of voice generation per user/month
• Create AI video voiceovers in minutes
• 120+ voices in 20+ languages
• Convert home recordings to professional voiceovers

Specially tailored to video voiceovers, Murf offers text to speech software that lets users create studio-quality audio in minutes. Murf has a wide range of AI-voices to suit every context, with categories ranging from Educator to Corporate Coach to Educator to Marketer and more. Use Murf to convert any text to speech or to turn your home-recorded audio into professional, studio-quality content that’s ideal for videos, podcasts, presentations, and more.

Murf’s in-built video editor lets you add images, music and videos to your audio so you don’t need to switch between multiple platforms and apps to create your content. You can also tweak your AI voiceover to add different pitches, emphasis, and interjections. If you want to add more users and collaborate with multiple members of your team or across different organizations, opt for Murf’s Enterprise plan.

The best stripped-down text to speech software for creators who want simplicity

• 20 minutes of voice per day
• Starting at $9.99/month for personal use
• Starting at $49/month for commercial use

Reasons to Buy

• Over 100 voices on paid plans
• Works on mobile devices for editing on-the-go
• Supports multiple text formats and includes OCR scanning

Designed for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike, Natural Reader is known for being extra user-friendly. With a simple user interface and pricing packages free of API frills, Natural Reader is a top choice for generating audio for YouTube videos, social media and education purposes. Simply paste your text into the text to speech tool and export the audio file – it’s instant and code-free.

If you want to make your voiceovers more engaging, experiment with adding extra emotions and effects in the app and use the studio editor to easily alter your audio without switching platforms. There’s one key drawback to note though – thanks to its usability, Natural Voice is popular with YouTube creators so you run the risk of choosing a voice option that’s been heard many times before.

Try Natural Reader

The best for creating multilingual voiceover content fast

• Up to 800 characters per month
• Starting from 9€/month (approx $9 USD/month) for 60,000 characters
• Built-in easy-to-use video editor
• Automatic translation into 30 languages
• Uses Google’s WaveNet technology

If you’re just getting started with video, VoiceOverMaker is a quick and easy text to speech tool to help you get realistic-sounding audio content for your videos. The service uses Google’s neural WaveNet technology to create humanlike voices – and gives you a single, cloud-based app to edit your voice track and videos together. The software includes useful features like automatic translation, background music, and a built-in screen recorder tool. Plus, take advantage of VoiceOverMaker’s pay-as-you-go pricing to keep costs to a minimum.

Try VoiceOverMaker

Best free text to speech software

The best option for free text to speech software for commercial use

• 10,000 characters per month
• Starting from $19/month for 1,000,000 characters

Reasons to use

• Higher character limit than competitors
• Download audio as mp3 in seconds
• Powered by Google machine learning

With no registration or sign-up required, you can start using FreeTTS immediately to convert up to 10,000 characters each month – and it’s completely free! FreeTTS prides itself on being super fast, helping Creator Educators easily convert scripts into mp3 audio files in seconds, so it’s ideal for producing video voiceovers quickly and efficiently. FreeTTS uses Google’s machine learning technology to deliver decent quality results across 50+ languages and the free version is suitable even for commercial use – but it’s important to note that you can only convert 500 characters of text at a time, so it’s best for short videos.

Try FreeTTS

Straightforward, free text to speech software with mobile app

• Unlimited text reading for personal use
• $2/month for commercial use
• Straightforward, no frills tool
• Upload files, PDFs, ebooks,and more
• Use online or download the iOS and Android app

On the surface, the TTSReader free text to speech software may look dated, but their free tool includes an impressive range of features. The TTSReader tool is about as utilitarian as it gets – it’s pared back but powerful, accepting a wide variety of file types that can be converted into simple audio files to listen to in your browser or save for later. The free version supports multiple languages and includes basic editing tools too. To unlock more features, you’ll need to purchase the premium plan – but at just $2 per month it won’t break the bank.

Try TTSReader

Use these top text to speech tools to engage your audience

Once you’ve started using text to speech software, there’s no going back. It’s so easy, efficient, and delivers impressive results – especially thanks to the range of new AI-driven tools on offer. To help you find the best text to speech apps for your needs, take advantage of the free plans and tools in this list and take some time to experiment with different options. Don’t forget, you can even create a unique voice for your brand!

If you’re a Creator Educator looking to earn more from your content, try Thinkific for free .

This post was originally created in 2022, it’s since been updated in June 2023.

Colin is a Content Marketer at Thinkific, writing about everything from online entrepreneurship & course creation to digital marketing strategy.

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Type or upload any text, file, website & book for listening online, proofreading, reading-along or generating professional mp3 voice-overs.

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SpeechNinja says what you type in real time. It enables people with speech difficulties to speak out loud using synthesized voice (AAC) and more.

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TTSReader reads out loud texts, webpages, pdfs & ebooks with natural sounding voices. Works out of the box. No need to download or install. No sign in required. Simply click 'play' and enjoy listening right in your browser. TTSReader remembers your text and position between sessions, so you can continue listening right where you left. Recording the generated speech is supported as well. Works offline, so you can use it at home, in the office, on the go, driving or taking a walk. Listening to textual content using TTSReader enables multitasking, reading on the go, improved comprehension and more. With support for multiple languages, it can be used for unlimited use cases .

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Main Use Cases

Listen to great content.

Most of the world's content is in textual form. Being able to listen to it - is huge! In that sense, TTSReader has a huge advantage over podcasts. You choose your content - out of an infinite variety - that includes humanity's entire knowledge and art richness. Listen to lectures, to PDF files. Paste or upload any text from anywhere, edit it if needed, and listen to it anywhere and anytime.

Proofreading

One of the best ways to catch errors in your writing is to listen to it being read aloud. By using TTSReader for proofreading, you can catch errors that you might have missed while reading silently, allowing you to improve the quality and accuracy of your written content. Errors can be in sentence structure, punctuation, and grammar, but also in your essay's structure, order and content.

Listen to web pages

TTSReader can be used to read out loud webpages in two different ways. 1. Using the regular player - paste the URL and click play. The website's content will be imported into the player. (2) Using our Chrome extension to listen to pages without leaving the page . Listening to web pages with TTSReader can provide a more accessible, convenient, and efficient way of consuming online content.

Turn ebooks into audiobooks

Upload any ebook file of epub format - and TTSReader will read it out loud for you, effectively turning it into an audiobook alternative. You can find thousands of epub books for free, available for download on Project Gutenberg's site, which is an open library for free ebooks.

Read along for speed & comprehension

TTSReader enables read along by highlighting the sentence being read and automatically scrolling to keep it in view. This way you can follow with your own eyes - in parallel to listening to it. This can boost reading speed and improve comprehension.

Generate audio files from text

TTSReader enables exporting the synthesized speech with a single click. This is available currently only on Windows and requires TTSReader’s premium . Adhering to the commercial terms some of the voices may be used commercially for publishing, such as narrating videos.

Accessibility, dyslexia, etc.

For individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties, listening to textual content, lectures, articles & web pages can be an essential tool for accessing & comprehending information.

Language learning

TTSReader can read out text in multiple languages, providing learners with listening as well as speaking practice. By listening to the text being read aloud, learners can improve their comprehension skills and pronunciation.

Kids - stories & learning

Kids love stories! And if you can read them stories - it's definitely the best! But, if you can't, let TTSReader read them stories for you. Set the right voice and speed, that is appropriate for their comprehension level. For kids who are at the age of learning to read - this can also be an effective tool to strengthen that skill, as it highlights every sentence being read.

Main Features

Ttsreader is a free text to speech reader that supports all modern browsers, including chrome, firefox and safari..

Includes multiple languages and accents. If on Chrome - you will get access to Google's voices as well. Super easy to use - no download, no login required. Here are some more features

Fun, Online, Free. Listen to great content

Drag, drop & play (or directly copy text & play). That’s it. No downloads. No logins. No passwords. No fuss. Simply fun to use and listen to great content. Great for listening in the background. Great for proof-reading. Great for kids and more. Learn more, including a YouTube we made, here .

Multilingual, Natural Voices

We facilitate high-quality natural-sounding voices from different sources. There are male & female voices, in different accents and different languages. Choose the voice you like, insert text, click play to generate the synthesized speech and enjoy listening.

Exit, Come Back & Play from Where You Stopped

TTSReader remembers the article and last position when paused, even if you close the browser. This way, you can come back to listening right where you previously left. Works on Chrome & Safari on mobile too. Ideal for listening to articles.

Vs. Recorded Podcasts

In many aspects, synthesized speech has advantages over recorded podcasts. Here are some: First of all - you have unlimited - free - content. That includes high-quality articles and books, that are not available on podcasts. Second - it’s free. Third - it uses almost no data - so it’s available offline too, and you save money. If you like listening on the go, as while driving or walking - get our free Android Text Reader App .

Read PDF Files, Texts & Websites

TTSReader extracts the text from pdf files, and reads it out loud. Also useful for simply copying text from pdf to anywhere. In addition, it highlights the text currently being read - so you can follow with your eyes. If you specifically want to listen to websites - such as blogs, news, wiki - you should get our free extension for Chrome

Export Speech to Audio Files

TTSReader enables exporting the synthesized speech to mp3 audio files. This is available currently only on Windows, and requires ttsreader’s premium .

Pricing & Plans

• Online text to speech player
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Benefits of Text to Speech

Text to speech enables brands, companies, and organizations to deliver enhanced end-user experience, while minimizing costs. Whether you’re developing services for website visitors, mobile app users, online learners, subscribers or consumers, text to speech allows you to respond to the different needs and desires of each user in terms of how they interact with your services, applications, devices, and content.

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TTS gives access to your content to a greater population, such as those with literacy difficulties, learning disabilities, reduced vision and those learning a language. It also opens doors to anyone else looking for easier ways to access digital content.

If flawless customer experience is at the heart of your business DNA, high-quality TTS voices or exclusive custom voices are both highly effective approaches to increasing your visibility in the voice user interface. TTS helps to enhance the customer journey across different touchpoints, fostering loyalty and setting your company apart from competitors.

Integrators and developers building services, apps, and devices across markets and verticals (e.g. telecoms, utilities, manufacturing, OEM, finance, etc.), benefit from adding speech output to services and applications. Text to speech enables a wider-reaching, more consumer-oriented end-user experience, helping reduce costs and increasing automation while providing personalized customer interactions.

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ReadSpeaker’s industry-leading voice expertise leveraged by leading Italian newspaper to enhance the reader experience Milan, Italy. – 19 October, 2023 – ReadSpeaker, the most trusted,…

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What is text-to-speech technology (TTS)?

By The Understood Team

Expert reviewed by Jamie Martin

At a glance

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology reads aloud digital text — the words on computers, smartphones, and tablets.

TTS can help people who struggle with reading.

There are TTS tools available for nearly every digital device.

Text-to-speech (TTS) is a type of assistive technology that reads digital text aloud. It’s sometimes called “read aloud” technology.

With a click of a button or the touch of a finger, TTS can take words on a computer or other digital device and convert them into audio. TTS is very helpful for kids and adults who struggle with reading. But it can also help with writing and editing, and even with focusing.

TTS works with nearly every personal digital device, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. All kinds of text files can be read aloud, including Word and Pages documents. Even online web pages can be read aloud.

Dive deeper

How does text-to-speech work.

The voice in TTS is computer-generated, and reading speed can usually be sped up or slowed down. 

Many TTS tools highlight words as they are read aloud. This allows the user to see text and hear it at the same time.

Some TTS tools can also read text aloud from images. For example, a user could take a photo of a street sign on their phone and have the words on the sign turned into audio.

Learn about the different types of TTS built into mobile devices.

The connection to audiobooks

You might be wondering what the connection is between TTS and audiobooks.

TTS is a tool that reads text aloud. An audiobook is a recording of a book read by a human voice (or created by TTS). Sometimes, people say TTS or audiobooks to mean the same thing.

Learn about how your child may be eligible for free audiobooks .

Types of text-to-speech tools

There are many different TTS tools:

Built-in text-to-speech: Many devices have built-in TTS tools . This includes desktop and laptop computers, smartphones, digital tablets, and Chromebooks. 

Web-based tools: Some websites have TTS tools on-site. 

Text-to-speech apps: Users can download TTS apps on smartphones and digital tablets. There are also TTS tools that can be added to web browsers, like Chrome .

Text-to-speech software programs: Many literacy software programs for desktop and laptop computers have TTS.

Find a list of free online assistive technology tools .

How text-to-speech can help kids

Print materials in school — like books and handouts — can create barriers for kids with reading challenges. That’s because some kids struggle with decoding and understanding words on the page. Using digital text with TTS can help.

Since TTS lets kids both see and hear text when reading, it creates a multisensory reading experience. And like audiobooks, TTS won’t slow down the development of kids’ reading skills.

Learn more about how TTS and audiobooks can help with learning to read .

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you don't find your answer here, please   contact us .

How does Speechise work?

You just open speechise.com in a browser, paste your text and click Play. The system converts the text to audio and the sound starts almost immediately. The chunk of text that is currently playing is highlighted in your browser. You can pause or continue listening.

Is Speechise Free?

Yes, you can use Speechise for free with the limit of 2,000 characters per single request.

All our subscription options are listed on the pricing page   for your convenience. You can upgrade to a paid version if you like Speechise and want to use it fully. Your feedback is appreciated in any case.

What Languages are Supported?

You can use 50+ languages and variants in 380+ voices.

Some of the supported languages are English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Turkish, Italian, Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Swedish, Bulgarian, Czech, Hungarian, Finnish, Greek, Ukrainian, Russian, Arabic, Korean, Hindi, Japanese, Chinese, Thai.

What is text-to-speech (TTS)?

Artificial intelligence (AI) software reads text or a document aloud for you. The text can be a fragment or a PDF, eBook, email or a webpage. The language can be English, Spanish, Portuguese or other. The voice sounds human and you can select accent/character.

Do I need to install anything?

No installation required. Speechise simply works in your browser on a desktop computer or a mobile device.

The 7 Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Android

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Every Android user should keep a text-to-speech app handy. You don't need to have a vision impairment to enjoy the benefits. For example, they'll let you listen to the news on your morning commute, catch up with new text messages in bed, or even enjoy your favorite eBooks without looking at the screen.

But which Android text-to-speech apps are the best? Keep reading to find out.

1. Android's Native Text-to-Speech Feature

Android has lots of accessibility tools that make a phone easier to use. One of the tools is a native text-to-speech function. The feature has fewer customizable settings than some of its competitors, but you can adjust the speech rate and pitch and install additional languages.

To change the text-to-speech settings, head to Settings > Accessibility > Text-to-speech output .

Android's text-to-speech feature automatically works with other Google apps that offer a read-aloud feature. For all other apps, you'll need to enable Select to Speak in Android's settings menu, which you'll find at Settings > Accessibility > Select to Speak . To use it, select text in any app and choose Speak from the popup menu.

If you only want basic text-to-speech functionality, you can stop here. The other options are only worth exploring if you need more features.

2. Voice Aloud Reader

Voice Aloud Reader is easy to use and supports a few different ways of reading text. If the app from which you want to read text has a share feature, just send the content to Voice Aloud Reader using the native Android Share menu . This also works for on-screen items that have their own share buttons, like tweets and Facebook posts.

Similarly, if the text you want to read is selectable, you can use the Share button in the popup context menu.

The app also works with URLs. Just paste the site's (or article's) address into Voice Aloud Reader, and it will automatically parse and read the relevant text for you. It's intelligent enough to strip out the menus and other junk. You can even add text files (like DOC and PDF) directly into the app; it can open the files and read their contents.

Download: Voice Aloud Reader (Free)

3. Narrator's Voice

Narrator's Voice offers something a bit different. The usual features are here: it is an app that reads text from apps, the web, messages, and other sources.

However, the app also has a fun side. You can add various sound effects to the speech synthesis, such as echo, reverb, gargle, and choir. It features a wide selection of voices to choose from. Some tech favorites like Cortana and Siri are present, as are some of the developer's own creations like "Steven" and "Pink Sheep" (don't ask).

Additionally, Narrator's Voice lets you add your own text, which it will then run through its synthesizer. It makes the app a great way to add a voiceover to video narrations, slideshow presentations, and more. You can even save your audio output file as an MP3, store it offline, and share it with friends.

An in-app purchase removes the ads.

Download: Narrator's Voice (Free, in-app purchases available)

Talk takes a more minimal approach than Voice Aloud Reader and Narrator's Voice, but it is still one of the best free text-to-speech apps for Android. The app can import web pages directly from your phone's browser or read the text from other third-party apps. You can export all the audio files and save them offline in the WAV format.

It's important to note that Talk Free relies on your phone's pre-existing text-to-speech (TTS) engine to work. Most Android devices will already have Google's engine installed. If you have deleted your phone's TTS engine, you can re-download Speech Recognition & Synthesis free from the Play Store.

The benefit of using Google's TTS engine is its support for lots of languages. If Google offers the language, Talk can generally work with it.

Download: Talk (Free)

T2S is a text-to-speech app that offers one of the most modern interfaces out of the apps we've discussed so far.

The app's standout feature is the presence of a simple built-in web browser. It's not going to win any awards for the number of features it offers, but it lets you easily listen to web pages without worrying about copying and pasting URLs or using the Share menu.

T2S's copy-to-speak feature is also worth mentioning. It shows an on-screen popup button whenever you copy text into other apps. Pressing the button will make the app start reading the copied text instantly. As with the other apps on this list, T2S lets you save your audio readouts and share them with other people. The pro version removes ads.

Download: T2S (Free, in-app purchases available)

6. NaturalReader

With AI being all the buzz, we ought to include an AI-powered solution to this list. NaturalReader offers almost 150 AI voices in different languages and over 25 dialects so that you can customize your text-to-speech experience to your liking.

The app can run in the background, so you can use other apps while listening to content. Moreover, it supports over 20 document formats, including PDF, DOCX, and eBook formats.

Other than the usual text-to-speech features, you can also use NaturalReader to detect and read text from images. This feature can come in super handy if you deal with a lot of scanned documents.

This feature is not perfect yet, but it works. If you're not satisfied with the built-in image-to-text functionality, you can convert images to text using OCR apps and then use NaturalReader for text-to-speech.

Download: NaturalReader (Free, in-app purchases available)

We'll leave you with a slightly left-field choice: Pocket. You probably already know it as one of the best apps to save articles to read later when you're offline.

You may not know, however, that Pocket also has a text-to-speech reader. The feature supports multiple voices and languages and includes adjustable pitch and speed. It even supports background playback, meaning you can keep listening while you use other apps.

Because the text-to-speech reader is one of Pocket's native features, it's great when you want to listen to some long-form content on a journey when you are without the internet. Obviously, if you want to listen to text from all your apps, this isn't the right choice for you.

Download: Pocket (Free, premium version available)

The Top Text-to-Voice Apps

Hopefully, you now appreciate the benefits of keeping a text-to-speech app installed on your Android device. Once you become more familiar with their use, you'll start to rely on the apps a lot more. Don't believe us? Try a couple, stick with them for a week or two, and thank us later!

There's also an opposite way of communicating with your Android device, that is, speech-to-text. Such apps are particularly great for note-taking.

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With the push of a single button, text to speech devices photograph your reading material and within seconds, begin reading it aloud. These easy-to-use devices are ideal for blind users of all ages and abilities.

Some devices offer the option of smart reading features that enable you to simply ask for the text that interests you and some even offer facial and product recognition!

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A guide to text-to-speech, the popular accessibility feature that lets your computer, phone, or tablet read to you

• Text-to-speech (TTS) is a popular feature that lets your computer or phone read text aloud to you.
• Text-to-speech is commonly used as an accessibility feature to help people who have trouble reading on-screen text, but it's also convenient for those who want to be read to.
• You can find text-to-speech features in many places today, including ebook readers, word processors, internet browsers, and more. 
• Visit Business Insider's Tech Reference library for more stories .

Text-to-speech , sometimes abbreviated as TTS, is a feature on your computer or phone that reads on-screen text aloud to you. 

Depending on how it's used, text-to-speech can be a convenience feature, or an accessibility feature that helps people who need additional assistance to hear text that's printed on-screen. 

Though TTS systems rely on a computerized voice speaking to you, in recent years these voices have become much more natural sounding. Many modern TTS voices are almost indistinguishable from humans, and some even incorporate natural human inflections to make them sound more lifelike. 

The most common uses of text-to-speech

Text-to-speech has become so ubiquitous that many people encounter it every day, often without even realizing it. Here are some of the most common examples of TTS in use today.

Smart speakers and virtual assistants

The place we see text-to-speech most often is with smart assistants, like Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri.

When you ask these assistants a question, they read to you from a predetermined library of words and phrases. These systems couldn't function without TTS technology.

Ebook Readers

Most popular ebook readers, including all new Kindle Fire devices, have a text-to-speech option. This also includes online readers, like the Internet Archive.

When buying an ebook for your Kindle Fire, you can check whether or not it can be read aloud by looking for the "Text-to-Speech: Enabled" label on its details page before you buy it.

Mapping software

Mapping and navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps are designed to automatically read turn-by-turn directions aloud using text-to-speech technology. 

Word processors

Some word processors have the ability to read contents aloud. Microsoft Word, for example, has a "Read Aloud" feature in the "Review" menu. When you select it, Word will read the current document aloud.

Google Docs has its own text-to-speech functions, but you'll need an add-on to use them .

Computer and phone operating systems

No matter what type of computer or smartphone you have, it has accessibility features that can read on-screen elements to you.

In Windows, you can turn on Narrator in the "Ease of Access" settings menu, while Mac users can enable VoiceOver using the "Accessibility" panel. 

iPhone users can find VoiceOver in the Accessibility section of Settings. Android users can download a host of TTS apps, or enable the built-in Google Text-to-Speech app through the "Language & Input" menu.

Related coverage from  Tech Reference :

How to use text-to-speech on discord, and have the desktop app read your messages aloud, how to use google text-to-speech on your android phone to hear text instead of reading it, how to activate voice controls on your android device, and make google searches or open apps with your voice, how to turn narrator on or off on a windows 10 computer, for an accessibility feature that reads text aloud, how to enable led flash notifications on your iphone, for visual notifications using accessibility features.

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Odyssey - Text-to-speech reader

An effective and affordable solution for capturing and reading printed text aloud.

Enhance your next reading journey with the Odyssey... our compact, lightweight, easy-to-use text-to-speech reader features large, tactile keys and generates an incomparably streamlined reading experience. Reading a letter, a recipe or any other document has never been easier!

With minimal set-up, you can capture and read everything from small text, such as product packaging, all the way to large, A3 documents. Once you're done, fold in the arm and stow it away... until your next journey!

How does this product change your life?

The Odyssey text reader turns letters, books, magazines, newspaper articles, medicine boxes, food packaging or any other printed text, whether written vertically or horizontally, into speech and reads it aloud. You can even save all the text you read by pressing and holding the menu button while reading. Up to 1,000 original texts can be stored in the built-in memory. It's that simple. 

Specifications

• Size: 280mm x 155mm x 155mm (11in X 6.1in X 6.in)
• Material: ABS
• Power: DC 5V/2A
• Operating temperature: 0 to 40C
• Autonomy: 06 hours
• Battery capacity: 6700 mAh
• RAM + ROM: 2GB + 16GB
• Camera: 13MP
• Input and output: 3.5 mm headset jack, video interface
• Extension interfaces: USB-A, USB-C, SD card slot

What's in the box?

• Desktop reading machine
• Power adapter
• Power cable (USB-A to 5V/2A round plug)
• User manual

Speak with an Expert: 888-211-6933

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LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader With Keypad

$ 2,330.00

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The LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader is an AUTOMATIC SCAN text-to-speech reader, which means the user does not have to press any buttons for simple and immediate text-to-speech conversion.

The LyriQ also has an incredible fifteen (15) hour rechargeable battery, weighs only 3lbs, and folds flat for easy portability.

The LyriQ is designed to assist people living with blindness or vision impairments by scanning printed documents and read them out loud.

It is spectacularly fast, extremely accurate, and very easy to use. With the LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader, you can read a book, an envelope, the letter that came in it, a prescription label, and anything else.

Place the document on the device’s base surface: the LyriQ will immediately scan it and start reading the contents out loud: no waiting, pressing buttons or any other ways of getting frustrated. The interactive and responsive LyriQ takes a couple of seconds to start the text to speech.

The LyriQ Text-to-Speech Reader Advantages

• Simple: place the printed page on the LyriQ Reader’s reading surface and start listening to the contents
• Responsive: immediate result and feedback. No getting lost, no confusing waiting
• Compact: fold flat, store like a laptop
• Intuitive: minimal actions are necessary to make use of other (basic, few, and important) device features – convenient large tactile buttons support and assist every step of the way
• Bluetooth-enabled: connect to external speakers or hearing aids
• Battery / AC powered: all-day lasting battery allows taking the device from the living room couch to the kitchen island and outside to the patio for relaxed and pleasant reading, or plug into an outlet if sitting close by.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q . What kind of documents can I read with LyriQ?

A . LyriQ can read any printed textbooks, magazines, mail.

Q . How difficult is it to learn to use LyriQ?

A . It is really simple. There is no need to remember where the buttons are or how to control the device. All it takes is to place reading material on the LyriQ’s base.

Q . Can LyriQ run on a battery?

A . Yes. LyriQ can run on a built-in battery, or plugged into an outlet. The fully charged battery lasts 12 hours.

Q . I am bi-lingual. Can LyriQ read foreign languages?

A . LyriQ can read in 20 different languages. In the US, it comes pre-installed with English and Spanish. Please contact us before ordering additional languages.

Q . How fast is LyriQ? How long does it take to read a page?

A . Once the page is placed on LyriQ’s base, it will take 1-2 seconds before you hear the page start being read.

Q . Can I adjust the reading speed?

A . Yes. Reading speed can be adjusted by two buttons on the side of the LyriQ’s base.

Q . Can I scan a book and listen to it later on DAISY or MP3 player?

A . Yes. You can scan a book and save it to a USB drive. LyriQ will save it both as text and in the MP3 format.

Q . Is LyriQ portable?

A . Yes. LyriQ weighs 3 lbs only, and folds down flat to measure 12″ x 12″ x 2″.

Q . Does LyriQ have any advanced text navigation functions?

A . Yes. Using an optional keypad, you can navigate text by character, word, sentence, or paragraph.

< Click here for the Software Update Procedure >

Recent Testimonial:

“I purchased a LyriQ a few weeks ago. And I’m just calling to say how pleased I am with it. It’s so good.  I have just have to say how wonderful it is. It never fails to read what I need it to read. So it’s very good. I can read my own mail and do my own things.” – Olivia

LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader – No Keypad

The LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader is also available without the keypad. Go to this product page to learn more – https://nelowvision.com/product/lyriq-assistive-text-to-speech-reader-with-keypad/

November 2022 Upgrade

Read more at https://nelowvision.com/lyriq-assistive-text-to-speech-reader-change-notification/

Videos to help you learn more

In this video, Scott Krug, President and Co-Founder of New England Low Vision and Blindness, describes the many features of the LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader

Sam from the Blind Life demonstrates LyriQ:

About New England Low Vision and Blindness

New England Low Vision and Blindness uniquely brings hope through technology, training, and care. We are a full-service assistive technology rehabilitation training provider. We offer nearly 100% of all major electronic  low vision ,  blindness , and  software  products, multiple assistive technology showrooms and a team of  Vision Technology Rehabilitation Trainers  to help anyone who is visually impaired.

We provide ‘patient choice’ showcasing numerous technology options from the world’s most respected suppliers, all in line with one’s individualized budgetary limits and personal, educational, or professional goals. We also provide custom training solutions and troubleshooting support.

Widely known, tested, and trusted throughout New England, our team brings 75+ years of low and blindness vision experience. Our talent, technology, and training offerings are unmatched and highly respected. We are an extremely unique and extraordinary resource for anyone suffering from vision loss in New England. We are here to help.

Through our no-obligation demonstrations - either at one of our conveniently located assistive technology showrooms or in their home, office, or school - clients experience a relaxed 2-hour no-obligation personal demonstration of almost 100% of all low vision and blindness technologies available on the market.

To learn more about how we Bring Hope to people who are blind or with low vision, contact a Technology Specialist at New England Low Vision and Blindness please call our toll-free number  888-211-6933  or email us at  [email protected] . You can also use the form above to request information about our services or a no-obligation demonstration on this or any of our products.

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About text-to-speech.

There has been a considerable increase in the availability of text-to-speech devices and software. A wide variety of software allows users to have text read to them from computer screens to phones. Software like Jaws has been widely used in the blind and low vision communities for many years and more recent developments include a free app for phones that scan and read text. From the robust featured software to the simplest app, options abound for converting text to speech.

While software products and phone applications are useful for the technically savvy user, there is a larger demographic of the low-vision community that are seniors who have not grown up with technology and are not as comfortable with learning new things. Their needs are most commonly addressed by devices that are simple to use and easy to incorporate into their daily routine. For these users there are handheld reading devices, head-worn text-to-speech devices that connect to a pair of glasses and desktop text to speech readers. Some of the newer text-to-speech devices that are available today include the following:

OrCam Read is a simple-to-use, handheld device, about the size of a marker board pen and equipped with a camera that captures text and instantly converts it to speech. Holding the device much like a writing instrument, the user simply points to their desired text and presses a button to capture the text to be read. OrCam Read guides the user to the text by projecting a red laser arrow to help them align the device with their text, making it easier to capture their desired text. OrCam Read also has a laser frame, or square, that allows users to ‘box’ multiple columns of text with one push of a button. When captured, this text is read just like one would read a newspaper article, headline first, then column one, column two, etc. Seeing this device and how simple it is to operate has generated responses like ‘It’s magic!’ The speed at which text is read is easily adjustable as is volume. OrCam Read will even pair with most Bluetooth devices, giving users privacy when reading things in the store, their restaurant menu or even the text that accompanies art in a museum display!

OrCam Pro has all the features of OrCam Read along with added features like facial recognition, bar code reading, color detection, and more, but it delivers these features in a different way. OrCam Pro is about the size of a tube of lipstick and magnetically mounts to the frame of a user’s glasses so the camera in the device is pointed in front of the person wearing those glasses. The user interacts with OrCam Pro by either using a finger to tap or swipe the side of the unit to perform a function or they can use an upright index finger to ‘point’ to text they desire to have read to them. OrCam Pro recognizes the upright finger pointing and automatically captures the text to be read. The same text could also be captured with a simple ‘tap’ on the side of the OrCam device. OrCam Pro is more robust, with more features and ability than OrCam Read, requiring more of a learning curve, but this powerful headworn text to speech device brings a great deal of independence to users. All the features of OrCam Pro are contained within the device and do not require internet access in order to use it.

Envision Glasses

Envision Glasses combines the power of Google Glass with a host of applications to bring low vision and blind users features like text to speech, facial and currency recognition, multiple languages, scene descriptions, and more. Envision Glasses will even allow users to call a friend or family member to guide them through an airport for example, by allowing users’ friends to see where they are and help them navigate their way around. The Envision Glasses rely primarily on having access to the internet where the processing of information is done. Being an internet-centric product means the power and capabilities of Envision are limited only by the ingenuity of software developers. New capabilities are introduced to users regularly as the product continues to incorporate new features. Envision Glasses offers a robust set of capabilities to users and are well suited to the user that is not afraid of  text-to-speech technology and learning new things.

Smart Reader

Smart Reader is an example of a simple-to-use, desktop text-to-speech reader. Small and lightweight, Smart Reader deploys a camera that points down to a user’s desktop and with the press of a button, will capture a page of text and convert it to speech.  Simple, but powerful and capable as Smart Reader will recognize multi-columned text and read it appropriately – and even if that text is presented to the camera upside down! With the simple spin of a dial, users can change the rate at which their materials are read to them, change the volume or voice. If a user prefers to see their text while reading, Smart Reader allows them to connect to any monitor where their captured text is not only displayed but can be magnified and in any contrast they prefer!

Text-to-Speech Technology in Washington

Text-to-speech devices are powerful and useful tools in the low-vision and blind user communities. Which text-to-speech devices are best for you, and how do you get one? These are important questions and because text-to-speech devices like those described above are an investment, we recommend users take advantage of local distributors that will bring these products to your home or workplace for a hands-on learning experience. Working with Vision Matters will help you make the best decision and we will also provide you with training on your text-to-speech devices. Contact us today .

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ReaderIt - Your Personal Text-to-Speech Companion

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Frequently asked questions

ReaderIt is a powerful text-to-speech AI product that converts written text into high-quality, natural-sounding speech

ReaderIt is available as a Chrome extension, iOS app, Android app, and Web-to-Voice feature accessible through the website.

You can easily share the audio by generating a link or using social sharing options provided within the app.

Yes, premium users enjoy access to a wider range of voices, allowing for more personalized and engaging audio experiences.

Yes, ReaderIt supports PDF to voice conversion, making it easy to listen to the content of PDF documents.

In addition to the core text-to-speech functionality, ReaderIt offers features like text highlighting, speed control, language selection, and the ability to save and organize favorite articles or documents.

ReaderIt can integrate seamlessly with various applications and websites through its API, allowing for a customizable and versatile user experience.

ReaderIt utilizes advanced AI technology to deliver high-quality and natural-sounding speech. While it strives for accuracy, minor variations may occur depending on the text and chosen voice.

Yes, ReaderIt supports multiple languages, providing users with the flexibility to listen to content in their preferred language.

For any support or feedback regarding ReaderIt, you can reach out to our dedicated support team through the app or website. We value your input and are committed to improving the user experience.

ReaderIt ensures excellent sound quality with its advanced speech synthesis technology. The generated speech is clear, natural-sounding, and highly intelligible.

• Accessibility: ReaderIt makes written content accessible to individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
• Multitasking: Listen to text while performing other tasks, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
• Language Learning: Improve pronunciation and language skills by hearing accurate spoken text.
• Content Sharing: Easily share audio versions of articles or documents through links or social media.
• Premium Features: Unlock additional voices and enjoy a more personalized experience.
• PDF Conversion: Convert PDF files into audio for convenient listening.
• Versatile Platforms: Use ReaderIt on Chrome, iOS, Android, or through the web, ensuring access across devices.

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LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader (Zyrlo)

The LyriQ Assistive Reader is designed to assist people living with blindness or vision impairments: this scan-and-read device scans printed documents and reads them out-loud. It is spectacularly fast, extremely accurate, and very easy to use. With the LyriQ, you can read a book, an envelope, the letter that came in it, a prescription label and anything else.

Place the document on the device’s base surface: the LyriQ will immediately scan it and start reading the contents out-loud: no waiting, pressing buttons or any other ways of getting frustrated. The interactive and responsive LyriQ takes a couple of seconds to start reading.

Product Description

The LyriQ is a fast, extremely accurate, and easy to use. The LyriQ is designed to assist people living with blindness or vision impairments by scanning printed documents and read them out loud. With the LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader, you can read a book, an envelope, the letter that came in it, a prescription label, and anything else. It features an incredible fifteen (15) hour rechargeable battery, weighs only 3lbs, and folds flat for easy portability.

Place the document on the device’s base surface: the LyriQ will immediately scan it and start reading the contents out loud: no waiting, pressing buttons or any other ways of getting frustrated. The interactive and responsive LyriQ takes a couple of seconds to start the text to speech.

The LyriQ Reader Advantages

• Simple: place the printed page on the LyriQ Reader’s reading surface and start listening to the contents
• Responsive: immediate result and feedback. No getting lost, no confused waiting
• Compact: fold flat, store like a laptop
• Intuitive: minimal actions are necessary to make use of other (basic, few and important) device features – convenient large tactile buttons support and assist every step of the way
• Bluetooth-enabled: connect to external speakers or hearing aids
• Battery / AC powered: all-day lasting battery allows taking the device from the living room couch, to the kitchen island and outside to the patio for relaxed and pleasant reading; or plug into an outlet, if sitting close by.
• Includes Carrying Case and 2-Year Warranty

The LyriQ Reader Keypad

The LyriQ Reader Keypad gives more options to navigate the text via additional buttons. The LyriQ Reader Keypad is wireless and snap-attaches to the back of the device.

Watch the LyriQ in action:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q . What kind of documents can I read with LyriQ? A . LyriQ can read any printed textbooks, magazines, mail.

Q . How difficult is it to learn to use LyriQ? A . It is really simple. There is no need to remember where the buttons are or how to control the device. All it takes is to place reading material on the LyriQ’s base.

Q . Can LyriQ run on a battery? A . Yes. LyriQ can run on a built-in battery or plugged into an outlet. The fully charged battery lasts 12 hours.

Q . I am bi-lingual. Can LyriQ read foreign languages? A . LyriQ can read in 20 different languages. In the US, it comes pre-installed with English and Spanish. Please contact us before ordering additional languages.

Q . How fast is LyriQ? How long does it take to read a page? A . Once the page is placed on LyriQ’s base, it will take 1-2 seconds before you hear the page start being read.

Q . Can I adjust the reading speed? A . Yes. Reading speed can be adjusted by two buttons on the side of the LyriQ’s base.

Q . Can I scan a book and listen to it later on DAISY or MP3 player? A . Yes. You can scan a book and save it to a USB drive. LyriQ will save it both as text and in the MP3 format.

Q . Is LyriQ portable? A . Yes. LyriQ weighs only 3 lbs, and folds down flat to measure 12″ x 12″ x 2″.

Q . Does LyriQ have any advanced text navigation functions? A . Yes. Using an optional keypad, you can navigate text by character, word, sentence, or paragraph.

Q.  Is there any keypad for the LyriQ A.  Yes there is – the  LyriQ Reader Keypad

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What Happened to My Speech to Text on Android? Troubleshooting & Solutions

Speech-to-text on Android devices has become an essential tool for many, transforming spoken words into written text with ease. But what happens when this handy feature suddenly stops working? Users often find themselves frustrated and searching for answers.

Several factors can cause speech-to-text issues on Android, ranging from software glitches to outdated apps. Understanding these potential problems can help users troubleshoot and restore functionality quickly. This article delves into the common causes and solutions, ensuring you get back to seamless voice typing in no time.

Table of Contents

Overview Of Speech To Text Feature On Android

Android’s speech-to-text feature converts spoken words into text. This functionality offers hands-free convenience, increasing productivity. Users can dictate messages, compose emails, and create notes without typing.

Speech recognition accuracy depends on several aspects. Factors include ambient noise, pronunciation, and accent. Google’s voice recognition algorithms process the speech input, giving real-time transcription. Regular updates improve accuracy and handle diverse voice inputs.

Speech-to-text integrates into various apps. Examples include messaging apps, word processors, and note-taking tools. Accessibility settings provide further customization for users with disabilities, enhancing usability.

Overall, Android’s speech-to-text enhances device interaction. When functional, it simplifies communication and increases efficiency across different tasks.

Common Issues With Speech To Text

Speech-to-text functionality on Android can encounter several problems that impact its performance, leading to user frustration.

Software Bugs

Software bugs disrupt the normal functioning of speech-to-text features. These glitches can cause incorrect transcriptions or prevent the feature from activating. Updating the device regularly mitigates these bugs, as manufacturers often release patches to rectify known issues. For instance, Google often updates its speech recognition APIs to improve reliability and accuracy.

Compatibility Problems

Compatibility problems arise when speech-to-text features are used with outdated apps or hardware. Newer versions of speech-to-text software may not work optimally with older apps, causing errors in transcription. Ensuring that all software components, including third-party apps, are up-to-date minimizes compatibility issues. For example, using an outdated messaging app may lead to failed or inaccurate speech inputs.

User Settings

Incorrect user settings affect speech-to-text performance significantly. Microphone permissions, language settings, and accessibility features must be correctly configured. Users can verify settings within the Android system settings under the “Language & Input” section. Misconfigured settings, such as language mismatches or disabled accessibility options, lead to frequent errors in speech recognition. Fine-tuning these settings based on personal preferences enhances performance.

Troubleshooting Steps

When speech-to-text on an Android device malfunctions, systematic troubleshooting can help restore its functionality.

Update Your Software

Updating the device’s software ensures compatibility and resolves known bugs. To check for updates, open Settings, select System, then tap System Update. Install any available updates. Ensure that voice input and the Google app are also current by visiting the Play Store and updating them if necessary.

Check Permissions

Permissions allow the speech-to-text feature to access necessary resources. Verify microphone and app permissions by opening Settings, selecting Apps & notifications, and choosing the specific speech-to-text app. Tap Permissions and enable Microphone. Ensure other relevant permissions like storage and internet are also granted.

Reset Speech To Text Settings

Resetting the settings can resolve configuration issues. Go to Settings, select Apps & notifications, then choose the speech-to-text app. Tap Storage, then Clear Cache and Clear Data. Restart the device to apply changes. Resetting the app restores its default settings, potentially solving persistent issues.

Alternative Solutions

Exploring alternative solutions can help resolve issues with speech-to-text on Android devices.

Third-Party Apps

Users can try third-party apps to replace or supplement the built-in speech-to-text feature. Several reliable apps offer enhanced functionality for speech recognition.

• Otter.ai : Otter.ai provides real-time transcription and saves transcripts for later use. Backed by robust algorithms, this app supports multiple languages and offers features like speaker identification and keyword highlights.
• Speechnotes : Speechnotes provides continuous speech-to-text functionality without time limits. This app includes custom keys for punctuations, operating offline, and offering multi-language support.
• Dragon Anywhere : Dragon Anywhere delivers professional-grade transcription. With high accuracy and customization options, users can dictate and edit documents on the go.

Voice Typing In Google Keyboard

Voice typing via Google Keyboard (Gboard) offers another practical alternative.

• Enabling Voice Typing : Ensure Gboard is updated. Open any app using the keyboard, tap the microphone icon, and begin speaking. Gboard will transcribe spoken words in real-time.
• Customization Options : Users can navigate to Gboard settings to customize voice input preferences. Options include selecting the primary language, enabling or disabling profanity filters, and adjusting transcription accuracy.
• Offline Mode : Gboard supports offline voice typing. Download necessary language packs by going to Gboard settings, selecting “Voice typing,” and downloading the requisite language files. This ensures efficient transcription without needing an internet connection.

By leveraging third-party apps and the voice typing feature in Google Keyboard, users can find effective alternatives to enhance speech-to-text capabilities on their Android devices.

Navigating the challenges of speech-to-text on Android doesn’t have to be daunting. By keeping devices updated and settings properly configured users can ensure smoother performance. When the built-in options fall short third-party apps like Otter.ai and Dragon Anywhere offer robust alternatives. Additionally Google Keyboard’s voice typing feature provides a reliable and customizable solution. Embracing these tools can significantly enhance speech recognition capabilities making communication and productivity more efficient on Android devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i do if my speech-to-text feature isn’t working on my android device.

First, ensure your device and apps are updated. Check if the speech-to-text feature has relevant permissions. Restarting the device can also help. If the problem persists, try using a third-party app like Otter.ai or Speechnotes for better results.

Are there any recommended third-party speech-to-text apps for Android?

Yes, some popular and reliable third-party apps include Otter.ai, Speechnotes, and Dragon Anywhere. These apps offer advanced features and better accuracy compared to some built-in options.

How can I use voice typing through Google Keyboard (Gboard) on my Android device?

To use voice typing with Gboard, open the keyboard in any app, tap the microphone icon, and start speaking. You can customize settings and even use voice typing offline by downloading the necessary language packs.

What are common issues that can affect speech-to-text performance on Android?

Common issues include outdated software, incorrect settings, and insufficient permissions. Ensuring your device is updated, granting necessary permissions, and configuring settings properly can improve performance.

Can I use speech-to-text offline on my Android device?

Yes, some apps and features, like Gboard, allow offline speech-to-text by downloading language packs. This can be particularly useful in areas with poor internet connectivity.

What steps can I take to troubleshoot speech-to-text issues on my Android device?

Firstly, update your device and apps. Ensure that permissions for the microphone and speech-to-text are enabled. Restart the device if needed. If issues persist, consider using alternative third-party apps for better performance.

Why is updating my device and apps important for speech-to-text functionality?

Updates often include bug fixes, new features, and improvements in performance, which can resolve compatibility issues and enhance the overall functionality of the speech-to-text feature on your device.

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FACT FOCUS: A look at claims made by Trump at news conference

Trump lashes out at Harris, recommits to a Sept. 10 debate at hourlong news conference

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks to reporters during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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FILE - Crowds are shown in front of the Washington Monument during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Aug. 28, 1963, in Washington. (AP Photo, File)

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump talks about his ear as he speaks to reporters during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

In his first news conference since Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee for president, former President Donald Trump said he would debate her on Sept. 10 and pushed for two more debates. The Republican presidential nominee spoke for more than an hour, discussing a number of issues facing the country and then taking questions from reporters. He made a number of false and misleading claims. Many of them have been made before.

Here’s a look at some of those claims.

CROWD SIZES

CLAIM: “The biggest crowd I’ve ever spoken — I’ve spoken to the biggest crowds. Nobody’s spoken to crowds bigger than me. If you look at Martin Luther King when he did his speech, his great speech, and you look at ours, same real estate, same everything, same number of people, if not we had more. And they said he had a million people, but I had 25,000 people.”

THE FACTS: Trump was comparing the crowd at his speech in front of the White House on Jan. 6, 2021, to the crowd that attended Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech on Aug. 28, 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial.

But far more people are estimated to have been at the latter than the former.

Approximately 250,000 people attended the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, at which King gave his speech, according to the National Park Service . The Associated Press reported in 2021 that there were at least 10,000 people at Trump’s address.

Moreover, Trump and King did not speak in the same location. King spoke from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial , which looks east toward the Washington Monument. Trump spoke at the Ellipse , a grassy area just south of the White House.

CLAIM: “Nobody was killed on Jan. 6.”

THE FACTS: That’s false. Five people died in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and its immediate aftermath. Pro-Trump rioters breached the U.S. Capitol that day amid Congress’ effort to certify Democrat Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory.

Among the deceased are Ashli Babbitt, a Trump supporter shot and killed by police, and Brian Sicknick, a police officer who died the day after battling the mob. Four additional officers who responded to the riot killed themselves in the following weeks and months.

Babbitt, a 35-year-old Air Force veteran from San Diego, was shot and killed by a police officer as she climbed through a broken part of a Capitol door during the violent riot. Trump has often cited Babbitt’s death while lamenting the treatment of those who attended a rally outside the White House that day and then marched to the Capitol, many of whom fought with police.

DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION

CLAIM: “The presidency was taken away from Joe Biden, and I’m no Biden fan, but I tell you what, from a constitutional standpoint, from any standpoint you look at, they took the presidency away.”

THE FACTS: There is nothing in the Constitution that prevents the Democratic Party from making Vice President Kamala Harris its nominee. That process is determined by the Democratic National Committee.

Harris officially claimed the nomination Monday following a five-day online voting process, receiving 4,563 delegate votes out of 4,615 cast, or about 99% of participating delegates. A total of 52 delegates in 18 states cast their votes for “present,” the only other option on the ballot.

The vice president was the only candidate eligible to receive votes after no other candidate qualified by the party’s deadline following President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the race on July 21.

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THE ECONOMY

CLAIM: Suggesting things would be different if he had been in office rather than Biden: “You wouldn’t have had inflation. You wouldn’t have had any inflation because inflation was caused by their bad energy problems. Now they’ve gone back to the Trump thing because they need the votes. They’re drilling now because they had to go back because gasoline was going up to 7, 8, 9 dollars a barrel.”

THE FACTS: There would have been at least some inflation if Trump had been reelected in 2020 because many of the factors causing inflation were outside a president’s control. Prices spiked in 2021 after cooped-up Americans ramped up their spending on goods such as exercise bikes and home office furniture, overwhelming disrupted supply chains. U.S. auto companies, for example, couldn’t get enough semiconductors and had to sharply reduce production, causing new and used car prices to shoot higher. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in March 2022 also sent gas and food prices soaring around the world, as Ukraine’s wheat exports were disrupted and many nations boycotted Russian oil and gas.

Still, under Biden, U.S. oil production reached a worldwide record level earlier this year .

Many economists, including some Democrats, say Biden’s $1.9 trillion financial support package, approved in March 2021, which provided a $1,400 stimulus check to most Americans, helped fuel inflation by ramping up demand. But it didn’t cause inflation all by itself. And Trump supported $2,000 stimulus checks in December 2020, rather than the $600 checks included in a package he signed into law in December 2020.

Prices still spiked in countries with different policies than Biden’s, such as France , Germany and the U.K. , though mostly because of the sharp increase in energy costs stemming from Russia’s invasion.

IMMIGRATION

CLAIM: “Twenty million people came over the border during the Biden-Harris administration — 20 million people — and it could be very much higher than that. Nobody really knows.”

THE FACTS: Trump’s 20 million figure is unsubstantiated at best, and he didn’t provide sources.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports 7.1 million arrests for illegal crossings from Mexico from January 2021 through June 2024. That’s arrests, not people. Under pandemic-era asylum restrictions, many people crossed more than once until they succeeded because there were no legal consequences for getting turned back to Mexico. So the number of people is lower than the number of arrests.

In addition, CBP says it stopped migrants 1.1 million times at official land crossings with Mexico from January 2021 through June 2024, largely under an online appointment system to claim asylum called CBP One.

U.S. authorities also admitted nearly 500,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela under presidential authority if they had financial sponsors and arrived at an airport.

All told, that’s nearly 8.7 million encounters. Again, the number of people is lower due to multiple encounters for some.

There are an unknown number of people who eluded capture, known as “got-aways” in Border Patrol parlance. The Border Patrol estimates how many but doesn’t publish that number.

CLAIM: Vice President Kamala Harris “was the border czar 100% and all of a sudden for the last few weeks she’s not the border czar anymore.”

THE FACTS: Harris was appointed to address “root causes” of migration in Central America. That migration manifests itself in illegal crossings to the U.S., but she was not assigned to the border.

NEW YORK CASES

CLAIM: “The New York cases are totally controlled out of the Department of Justice.”

THE FACTS: Trump was referring to two cases brought against him in New York — one civil and the other criminal.

Neither has anything to do with the U.S. Department of Justice.

The civil case was initiated by a lawsuit from New York Attorney General Letitia James. In that case, Trump was ordered in February to pay a $454 million penalty for lying about his wealth for years as he built the real estate empire that vaulted him to stardom and the White House.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a state-level prosecutor, brought the criminal case . In May, a jury found Trump guilty on 34 felony counts in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex.

___ Associated Press writers Melissa Goldin and Elliot Spagat and economics writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this article. ___

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck .

An earlier version of this story mixed up “latter” and “former” in the third paragraph. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech on Aug. 28, 1963, drew a far larger crowd than Donald Trump’s speech near the White House on Jan. 6, 2021.

Text to speech reader for the blind

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Table of contents, what is text to speech, reading - the biggest challenge of the blind, other struggles the blind face, audiobooks for the blind, volunteer readers for the blind, text to speech, how text to speech can help the blind and vision impaired, speechify’s text to speech service, screen readers, ocr software, screen magnification, refreshable braille displays, accessibility features on ios, accessibility features on android, why speechify is the best text to speech reader for the blind, who does speechify help, how do blind people use text to speech, can blind people read text messages, what do blind people use to read.

Text to speech readers for the blind are a game changer in business, in school, and in your leisure. Here are some of our top picks.

Text to speech technology has changed the way visually impaired and blind people access written information. This assistive technology offers a lifeline for those facing vision loss, making it possible to convert printed material and digital text into spoken words. In this article, we will explore the significance of text to speech technology, the struggles faced by the blind, and how text to speech and other assistive technology can enhance their lives.

Text to speech ( TTS ) is a technology that converts written text, whether it's in printed material, web pages, or digital documents, into spoken words. This speech conversion can be generated by computerized voices or human-like synthesizers, aiding blind and visually impaired individuals in accessing information through audio output.

For individuals who are blind, reading presents one of the most significant challenges in their daily lives. The absence or loss of sight makes the traditional act of visually scanning and interpreting reading material impossible or very difficult, depending on the degree of the vision loss, necessitating alternative methods to access information and literature.

In addition to reading, blind people also struggle with:

• Inaccessible printed material: Blind people often struggle with accessing printed text, such as books, newspapers, and documents, which rely on visual elements like text color, font size, and high contrast.
• Limited web accessibility: Many web pages are not designed with accessibility in mind, creating barriers for blind users who rely on screen readers and assistive technology to navigate the internet.
• Braille limitations: Although braille is an essential tactile system for reading and writing, the availability of braille materials and the literacy rates among the blind remain a concern.

How the blind can read

Thankfully, blind people can employ various innovative techniques to read and access information. These methods are often based on converting written text into non-visual formats that are accessible to them. These approaches include Braille, audiobooks, volunteer readers, and text to speech technology, so let’s break them down.

Audiobooks have become a valuable resource for the blind, providing a means to "read" books and other written materials through audio narration. They allow individuals to listen to books and other printed materials, making literature and information more accessible and enjoyable.

Volunteer readers play a vital role in helping the blind access written content. These dedicated individuals read aloud printed materials, such as books, newspapers, or magazines, to blind individuals who may not have access to audiobooks or other assistive technology. Their efforts enable the blind to stay informed and entertained through the power of the spoken word.

Braille is a tactile writing system that uses a series of raised dots to represent letters, numbers, and symbols. It provides a means for the blind to read and write independently by touch. Braille is commonly used for books, documents, labels, and signage, enabling individuals with visual impairments to access printed information in a tangible and tacticle format.

Text to speech (TTS) technology is a critical tool for the blind, as it converts written text into spoken words. Special software and devices can read aloud digital content, including websites, study guides, and documents, making information from the internet and electronic media accessible to those with visual impairments. One such text to speech platform is Speechify, which allows those dealing with vision loss to have any digital or physical text read aloud.

For those with visual impairments, the ability to convert written text into spoken words through text to speech systems opens up opportunities for education, communication, and independence that were once constrained by the limitations of printed materials. In fact, TTS platforms like Speechify can help those with vision loss through:

• Access to printed material: Text to speech technology allows blind individuals to access a wide range of printed materials, including study guides, webpages, documents, and signs, by using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to convert text into speech.
• Web accessibility: Screen readers and TTS software make web pages accessible by reading aloud the content and providing navigation enhancements like headings, links, and alternative text for images.
• Braille enhancement: Text to speech can complement refreshable braille displays, offering an audio-visual experience for the blind and low vision users.

Best assistive technology for the blind

In a world that increasingly relies on digital information and technology, assistive technology has become an essential lifeline for individuals with visual impairments. For the blind, the right assistive tools can bridge the gap between exclusion and full participation in the digital age. Let’s explore some top options.

One of the best assistive technologies for the blind is Speechify, a powerful text to speech application. Speechify transforms any digital or physical text into spoken words, making it accessible to individuals with visual impairments. With its user-friendly interface and compatibility across various platforms, Speechify empowers blind individuals to access information independently and efficiently. Its advanced features, including adjustable reading speeds, high-quality voices, and OCR scanning, further enhance the user experience.

Popular screen readers like JAWS for Windows, VoiceOver for Apple's iOS and Mac OS, NVDA for Windows, Orca for Linux, and Speechify for any device provide comprehensive text to speech and braille support, enhancing accessibility. These assistive technologies empower visually impaired users to navigate computers and mobile devices, surf the web, and interact with digital content by audibly conveying information displayed on the screen, making the digital world more inclusive and accessible.

OCR software, such as Microsoft's built-in tools and third-party solutions like Speechify, enable blind users to convert printed text into digital format for TTS playback. This technology plays a crucial role in transforming physical documents, such as books, documents, and printed materials, into accessible digital versions, thus opening up a wealth of written knowledge and information to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

For individuals with low vision, screen magnification software and magnifiers enhance the size and visibility of text and graphical content. These tools magnify the on-screen elements, making it easier for those with limited vision to read and interact with digital interfaces, websites, and documents, thereby improving their digital experience and productivity.

Refreshable braille displays combine tactile braille with TTS to offer a dual sensory experience, allowing blind individuals to read and listen simultaneously. Refreshable braille displays bring text and information to life through touch, enabling blind users to access digital content, communicate, and engage with technology in a way that combines the benefits of braille literacy with the convenience of text to speech technology, promoting greater independence and inclusivity.

Accessibility features for the blind on IOS and Android

Accessibility features for the blind are also available on both iOS and Android devices, providing a range of tools and options to help visually impaired users navigate and interact with their smartphones. Here, we'll explore some of the key accessibility features available on both platforms and provide step-by-step instructions on how to use them.

Here is a breakdown of some of the top accessibility features on IOS:

VoiceOver is a screen reader that reads out loud the content on your iOS device's screen. Enable VoiceOver by following the steps below:

• Open the "Settings" app.
• Scroll down and tap on "Accessibility."
• Under the "VoiceOver" section, toggle the switch to enable it.
• Customize VoiceOver settings, such as speech rate and verbosity, by tapping "VoiceOver" and selecting "Speech" or "Rotor."

Zoom allows users to magnify the screen, making it easier to read and interact with content. To enable zoom, simply:

• Under the "Vision" section, select "Zoom" and toggle the switch to enable it.
• To zoom in, double-tap the screen with three fingers. Drag three fingers to adjust the zoom level.

The magnifier feature turns your device's camera into a magnifying glass. To turn on the magnifier feature:

• Under the "Vision" section, select "Magnifier" and toggle the switch to enable it.
• Triple-press the home button (or side button, depending on your device) to open the Magnifier.

To make your Android experience more accessible, check out these accessibility features:

TalkBack is Google's screen reader for Android, providing spoken feedback for what's on the screen. Follow the steps below to enable TalkBack:

• Under "Screen reader," tap "TalkBack," and toggle the switch to enable it.
• Follow the setup wizard for additional customization options.

Magnification gestures

This feature allows you to magnify parts of the screen for better visibility. Here’s a guide to use magnification gestures:

• Under "Magnification gestures," toggle the switch to enable it.
• Triple-tap the screen with one finger to zoom in and out. Drag two or more fingers to pan around.

Select to Speak

Select to Speak reads text aloud by highlighting it on the screen. Enable Select to Speak by using the steps below:

• Under the "Text to speech output" section, tap "Select to Speak" and toggle the switch to enable it.
• To use Select to Speak, tap the Accessibility button (a floating button with a hand icon) and select the text you want to read.

Speechify is a top-notch text to speech reader, catering to the specific needs of blind and visually impaired people. This user-friendly platform is available as a website, Chrome web browser extension, and Android or Apple app, making it highly versatile. It excels in its high-quality voice synthesis and supports various formats, including HTML, emails, computer screen content, and documents. Speechify's seamless integration with OCR technology ensures blind users can easily convert printed material into audio content. Additionally, it offers customization options such as voice selection and playback speed, making it a standout choice in the assistive technology market. Try Speechify for free today for more accessibility.

Speechify helps individuals with dyslexia, vision loss, blindness, ADHD, multitaskers, and various disabilities to access and comprehend written content more easily through text to speech technology.

Blind people use text to speech technology by utilizing screen readers or specialized software such as Speechify that converts written text into spoken words, allowing them to listen to and interact with digital content, such as websites, documents, and messages.

Yes, blind people can read text messages through the use of text to speech tools like Speechify, which convert the text messages into speech or braille, enabling them to access and respond to text messages independently.

Blind people can use braille, text to speech, audiobooks, and screen readers to read.

The 5 best text to speech Chrome extensions

Read Aloud: Transforming the Way We Experience Text

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.

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Trump sticks to tale of scary helicopter ride, despite denials

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Reporting by James Oliphant; Additional reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Jonathan Oatis and William Mallard

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Thomson Reuters

Alexandra covers the 2024 U.S. presidential race, with a focus on Republicans, donors and AI. Previously, she spent four years in Venezuela reporting on the humanitarian crisis and investigating corruption. She has also worked in India, Chile and Argentina. Alexandra was Reuters' Reporter of the Year and has won an Overseas Press Club award.

Climber scales Eiffel Tower on last day of Paris Olympics, met by police, media reports

A climber scaled the north face of the Eiffel Tower in Paris on Sunday, the last day of the Olympics, before he was met by police mid-way up, French media said.