How PDF to voice readers are upgrading content consumption

Whether you’re downloading a document for school, business, or personal use, you’re likely saving a PDF file.

PDF documents are one of the most popular file formats due to their structural integrity. When you try to open a Microsoft Word doc (.docs), rich text format (.rtf), Powerpoint presentation (.ppt), or plain text file (.txt), you risk compromising the doc’s layout and content.

But that’s not the case with PDF files. Most web browsers can open this file type without difficulty, allowing PDF readers to read PDFs directly from the browser window.

However, the PDF format may not be ideal for all users. People with learning disabilities like ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia often struggle with reading, and the same goes for individuals with visual impairments.

The good news is that technology has come a long way, and we now have text to speech (TTS) programs that guarantee hassle-free reading of virtually any file format. Before we get into the article, you need to have an understanding on what a voice reader is.

What is text to speech?

Text to speech software is a kind of assistive technology that can read digital and printed text out loud. For this reason, TTS tools are sometimes also called “read-aloud” technology.

With a few clicks, TTS solutions process text on computers or mobile devices and convert it into high-quality audio formats. Think of it as podcasting, only you decide what content to turn into a podcast.

While TTS apps are invaluable for special education and people who have overcome learning disabilities, they’re also great for editing, writing, proofreading, and speed reading.

TTS technology can recognize multiple text files, including PDFs, web pages, Google Drive docs, Microsoft Word files, research papers, news articles, and much more.

Although modern mobile devices have inbuilt TTS functionalities, more robust programs offer advanced features. For example, users can switch between different languages, translate text, take notes, and adjust their reading speed. There are a variety of benefits that come along with using a PDF to voice reader as well.

The benefits of using a PDF to voice reader

The benefits of using a PDF to voice reader are numerous. Firstly, it provides an inclusive reading experience for individuals with visual impairments, allowing them to access written content effortlessly. For those who are blind or have low vision, voice reading opens up a whole new world of information and knowledge that was previously inaccessible. By using the “activate read out loud” feature, users can easily transform pdf text into spoken words.

Secondly, voice reading can improve comprehension and retention, as hearing information can enhance understanding and promote memory recall. When listening to content, individuals can focus solely on absorbing the information without the distractions of visually scanning the text. This auditory learning experience can be particularly beneficial for people with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or attention deficit disorders. Moreover, the ability to convert PDFs into audio files means that users can create their own audiobooks, making the content even more portable and accessible.

Additionally, using a PDF to voice reader saves time, as you can listen to content while engaging in other activities, such as exercising or commuting. Instead of setting aside dedicated reading time, you can effortlessly consume written materials while multitasking. This can be especially advantageous for busy individuals who are always on the go. And with offline capabilities, you don’t even need an internet connection to use the book reader feature.

Voice reading reduces eye strain caused by prolonged reading. Many people spend a significant amount of time reading digitally, whether it’s for work, education, or leisure. This includes not just PDFs but also formats like Excel. Staring at screens for extended periods can lead to eye fatigue and discomfort. By using a PDF to voice reader, you can give your eyes a break while still accessing the information you need. Some advanced readers even offer the option to save the spoken content as WAV files for further convenience.

Voice reading technology has revolutionized the way we consume written content. It has made reading more accessible, inclusive, and convenient for individuals with visual impairments, learning difficulties, or those who simply prefer an auditory learning experience. With its ability to convert written text into lifelike spoken words, voice reading opens up a world of possibilities for people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Using Adobe Reader to convert PDFs to voice

The Adobe Acrobat Reader helps millions of users view and edit PDF files. This program allows you to edit, sign, organize, and share PDF documents. Best of all, you don’t have to install Acrobat Professional or Standard to use this service.

Although many rely on the tool to optimize and secure PDFs, they aren’t always aware of its TTS capabilities. If the font size is too small, there is no need to squint and strain your eyes. Adobe Acrobat Reader can read aloud the content and you can select the preferred reading pace and narration voice.

The following steps will help you activate the read-out-loud option in Adobe Acrobat Reader:

1. Launch the program and scroll to the appropriate page.
2. Select “View” from the upper-left menu and tap “Read Out Loud.”

Press “Read to End of Document” to listen to the whole file. If you click “Read This Page Only,” the app will read the selected page.

Adobe Reader is available as a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. You can also install the desktop app on your Mac or Windows computer.

Other ways to read PDF files aloud

Although practical, Adobe Reader is a one-stop shop for PDF files, not other formats. Fortunately, many powerful and easy-to-use text to speech readers support different file types and work on all major operating systems.

These tools can process PDF files thanks to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology. Inbuilt OCR software allows TTS programs to recognize images, extract text, and produce audio output.

Let’s look at several TTS alternatives to Adobe Acrobat that may meet your reading needs better.

Speechify

Speechify has quickly become a TTS leader due to its helpful features and simple interface. It boasts an impressive library of natural-sounding voices and is highly customizable.

Users can choose from numerous male and female voices, adjust the pitch and reading speed, and listen to text in over 30 languages.

You can install the Chrome extension and turn your browser into your personal reader. Alternatively, you could download the smartphone app and turn any printed or digital text into speech.

NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a TTS solution that caters to foreign language learners, students, dyslexic learners, and working professionals.

It has a solid selection of AI-generated content users can access to listen to PDFs, Microsoft Word files, EPUBs, web pages, HTML, RTFs, and more.

The software is also great for content creators and educators who can create voiceovers for videos and eLearning resources.

You can use the service on your smartphone or visit the web-based version.

Voice Dream Reader

One of the most well-known text to speech apps, the Voice Dream Reader, is relatively affordable and works well with iPads and iPhones. Users can access over 70 AI-powered voices and consume content in over 20 languages.

Those unsure whether the app is a good fit can try the free version called the Voice Dream Reader Lite. This app reads the initial 300 characters of a document or book and provides a sneak peek of the app’s full potential. You can find it in the Apple App Store.

Voice Aloud Reader

This free Android app is available in the Google Play Store and is an excellent choice for those looking for a beginner-friendly TTS program.

The onboarding process is straightforward, and users appreciate the “Night mode” and “Sleep time” features.

The developers are yet to release an iOS version.

Try Speechify when converting PDF files to speech

With Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can only listen to PDF files. But with a TTS app like Speechify, reading any file can become a podcast-like experience.

Whether you’re trying to overcome a learning disability or boost your productivity, Speechify has your back. With its unmatched language selection and customization options, reading e-Books, web pages, and PDF documents becomes hassle-free.

Try it for free today to see if the program is right for you.

FAQs

Which is the best PDF Voice Reader?

Abode Acrobat Reader is a reliable PDF tool. Unfortunately, it only reads PDFs. Users who want to listen to other formats should look into TTS tools like Speechify, NaturalReader, or Read Aloud.

How does a PDF to Voice reader differ from a standard text-to-speech tool?

While both tools convert text into speech, a PDF to Voice reader is specifically designed to handle the unique formatting and structure of PDF documents. This ensures that content is read in the correct order and that non-text elements (like images or charts) are appropriately skipped or described.

Can I use a PDF to Voice reader on any PDF document?

Most PDF to Voice readers can handle standard text-based PDFs with ease. However, for PDFs that contain mainly images or scanned pages, the software might require an additional OCR (Optical Character Recognition) feature to recognize and convert the text within the images into speech.