Read Aloud Archives

Winsage

August 4, 2026

I used this free Microsoft Edge feature to replace a $29 subscription, here’s how it held up

Microsoft Edge includes a Read Aloud function, which allows users to listen to content. Speechify has launched a Windows app that offers real-time text-to-speech and voice typing capabilities. Speechify provides a variety of natural-sounding voices and allows users to customize speech speed and tone, while Edge's Read Aloud is integrated into the browsing experience without additional downloads. Speechify's app includes voice typing, a feature not available in Edge's Read Aloud.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

The latest Windows 11 update highlights the part of Microsoft I genuinely enjoy covering the most

Windows Insiders can explore a new build of Windows 11 that enhances accessibility features, particularly the upgraded Voice Access with Voice Isolation, which filters background noise for better voice command control in noisy environments. This update allows users to navigate their devices using voice commands alone, with a dock displaying spoken commands for immediate feedback. Voice Access now offers three speech recognition modes: Voice Isolation, which requires a one-time voice setup; Remove background noise only, which eliminates non-speech sounds without additional setup; and No filtering, the default mode. Additionally, the Narrator feature has improved support for HID-compliant braille displays, enabling plug-and-play connectivity via USB or Bluetooth, including during the initial Windows setup for users who are deaf-blind. Compatible HID displays include the Orbit Reader 20, Orbit Slate 340, Freedom Scientific Focus 40, and APH Mantis Q40. Customization options for braille input and output are available in the Accessibility settings under Narrator.

AppWizard

July 4, 2026

I tried Android Auto’s new Adobe Acrobat PDF app

Android Auto has introduced the Adobe Acrobat app, which allows users to access PDFs in an audio-only format using a "Read Aloud" feature. This enables drivers to listen to documents being read aloud while driving, with controls for play, pause, and skip available via the car’s touchscreen or steering wheel buttons. The app is particularly useful for multitasking, allowing users to absorb information from meeting notes, important documents, or industry reports during commutes. While the audio quality may not match that of professional audiobooks, it serves as a practical tool for accessing written content on the road.