How I Use Text to Speech for Listening to Fan Fiction on My Phone and on My Computer

As an avid fanfiction reader and enthusiast of all things fandom, I've explored various ways to indulge in my favorite stories—from traditional reading on sites like FanFiction.net (FFN) and Wattpad to diving into the latest audiobooks. However, one game-changer has been integrating text-to-speech (TTS) technology into my reading habits. Whether on my Android phone, iPhone, Windows PC, or Mac, text-to-speech apps have transformed my fanfic marathons into immersive, hands-free experiences. Here's how I optimize TTS for enjoying fanfiction across different devices.

Choosing the Right Text to Speech Software

The journey begins by selecting high-quality text-to-speech software. For mobile devices, both Google Play and the Apple App Store offer a plethora of TTS apps. Apps like Speechify and Voice Dream Reader are top picks for their natural-sounding voices and extensive customization options, including voice over and reading speed adjustments.

On computers, options like Microsoft’s built-in TTS features on Windows or third-party applications for Mac, like the Speechify text to speech Mac App ensure a seamless reading experience. The AI voice technology in these tools can effectively transform written text into spoken words, emulating a near-natural and engaging voice.

Listening to Fan Fiction on Android and iOS

For Android and iOS users, the process is quite straightforward. On Android, I often use Speechify’s Android text-to-speech app to read aloud fanfics downloaded as EPUB or DOC files. While my iPhone has Apple's native speech tools, Speechify does provide robust support for reading aloud texts directly from apps like Wattpad or fanfic documents saved in iCloud.

Configuring the TTS app to use AI-generated, natural-sounding voices significantly enhances the audio quality, making it feel more like listening to an audiobook than a robotic readout. Adjusting the voice pitch and reading speed is crucial for tailoring the listening experience to match my preferences or the particular style of a fanfic, whether it's a slow-burn romance or a fast-paced anime adventure.

Windows and Mac: A Haven for Fanfic Audiobooks

On my Windows laptop and Mac, TTS software becomes even more powerful due to the advanced speech synthesis features available. I use applications like Balabolka on Windows and the native "Speak" feature on Mac to convert text from fanfiction.net, FF.net, and other fanfic forums into spoken word. These platforms allow for deeper customization, such as selecting different English dialects and voices, which adds a unique flavor to each character’s dialogue.

Integrating with Fan Fiction Platforms and Docs

Integrating TTS with popular fan fiction platforms enhances the accessibility of vast fic libraries. On sites like FFN and Wattpad, I utilize browser extensions such as Speechify, on Chrome to directly convert text to speech while browsing stories. This integration means I can listen to fanfics as easily as streaming a video on TikTok or YouTube.

Moreover, for those who write or collect fanfics in Google Docs or Microsoft Word, utilizing the text to speech API or built-in read aloud features can turn writing and editing sessions into interactive, auditory reviews of one's work, improving both engagement and proofreading accuracy.

The evolution of TTS technology, coupled with the ever-growing popularity of fanfiction, has significantly enriched my reading experience. Using text-to-speech apps and software, I can enjoy my favorite fics in a more dynamic and flexible way—whether I’m on the go with my Android, nestled into a reading nook with my iPad, or multitasking on my Windows PC. The combination of artificial intelligence, speech synthesis, and speech tools not only makes fanfiction more accessible but also continues to bridge the gap between traditional reading and auditory learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you listen to fanfiction?

Yes, you can listen to fanfiction by using text-to-speech (TTS) apps that convert the written content into audio, allowing you to experience stories audibly.

How do I use text to speech?

To use text to speech, choose a TTS app or software, upload or input the text you want to hear, and select a voice and speech rate before hitting play to listen.

How to do text to speech on AO3?

To use text to speech on Archive of Our Own (AO3), you can use a browser extension or a TTS app that supports web reading, then play the fanfiction directly from the website.

Is it legal to read fan fiction?

Yes, reading fan fiction is legal; it's a form of transformative work that often falls under fair use, though the legality can depend on how the fanfic is used and distributed.