Microsoft Edge lets users access text to speech (TTS) and read-aloud options as they browse web pages. Here is how to activate these features.

Text to speech on Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is a popular web browser. Initially only compatible with Xbox One and Windows 10, it now works well on all Windows computers and Android and iOS platforms.

Users praise this web browser for its functionality, which makes it stand out from similar products. Microsoft Edge is secure, offers superior power efficiency, allows users to work with vertical tabs, and features a beginner-friendly and responsive interface.

Unlike other companies, Microsoft has tried to make the browser more accessible, keeping up with the latest advancements in assistive technology. As a result, Microsoft Edge lets users access text to speech (TTS) and read-aloud options as they browse web pages. Here is how to activate these features.

Immersive reader – the way to activate text to speech in Edge

The immersive reader is one of the most impressive functionalities in Microsoft Edge. Its implementation highlights the company's focus on accessibility.

This functionality is available on Chromium-based editions of the Microsoft Edge browser. The feature is an excellent way to create a distraction-free environment for reading web pages, articles, and PDF files.

It caters to the needs of people with learning disabilities like dyslexia and dysgraphia and is an excellent asset for those who want to declutter their online space.

Focusing on the content can be challenging when you find an interesting article due to countless ads, links, and other distracting visual elements. But the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge browser removes these distractions, simplifying the web page's layout. Additionally, it improves the quality of the background, optimizes the font, and transforms internet browsing into a top-grade e-book experience.

Here's what you need to do to enable the immersive reader feature on Microsoft Edge on a Windows 10 computer:

1. Open the Microsoft Edge browser and find the web page you want to read.
2. Tap the "book and speaker" (immersive reader) button.

And that's it. You've entered the “immersive reader” mode. The web browser should now reformat the site with a more readable font and warmer color for the background.

Note that the feature isn't compatible with all web pages. If you can't find it in the address bar, the following instructions may help:

1. Open a website and select the text you wish to read.
2. Right-click to generate the context menu.
3. Choose "Open in Immersive Reader."

When you want to exit the immersive reader mode, press the appropriate button in the address bar. Alternatively, tap the F9 key.

The feature does more than create a more visually appealing reading view. It has customizable preferences and advanced grammar tools incorporating text to speech technology.

Activating the read aloud text to speech reader in Edge

After activating the immersive reader, you'll gain access to multiple new features. Perhaps the most exciting one is Microsoft Edge's read-aloud feature.

Follow the steps below to enable the browser to read a website aloud:

1. Choose the "Read Aloud" option from the toolbar.
2. Customize your reading preferences in the ribbon toolbar.
3. Use the buttons to adjust playback options, skip paragraphs, and tweak voice options.

Before listening to an article or paper, always experiment with voice options to find your preferred tone and reading pace.

Other helpful grammar tools that Microsoft Edge offers in immersive reader mode include:

• Syl·la·bles - breaks down words into syllables with small dots
• Parts of speech - highlights all the verbs, nouns, adverbs, or adjectives on the page using colored labels

Alternatives to Read Aloud

Although Microsoft Edge's read-aloud feature provides a solid performance, you may want to check out the options below.

Hewizo

Hewizo is a text to speech article reader that supports over 30 languages. The program uses AI-enabled technology to analyze the web and collect posts and articles from major publications. It then converts the text into audio files users can listen to at school, work, or on public transportation.

You can use its services directly from the Hewizo website or the app available as a Google Chrome extension.

Free simple apps text to speech

Those who dislike working with complex technology might be interested in using the basic Text to Speech program from Free Simple Apps.

The free software provides a minimalistic and easy-to-use interface. The app automatically detects the web page's source language, so users don't have to tweak the settings each time they launch the program. All you need to do to open the app is press the T, Insert, or the Alt key.

NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a web-based TTS app, so you don't have to download any complex software. Instead, users can log into the site through their computers or mobile devices.

To get started with NaturalReader, do the following:

1. Head to the website and tap the "More" button in the top-right corner.
2. Select "Login" from the list of options.

When accessing the site from a mobile device, press the three horizontal lines instead of "More."

Speechify

Speechify is one of the most robust text to speech (TTS) apps that reads articles, Microsoft Word documents, emails, and PDF files aloud. It has an intuitive interface and you can trust it to read a text while you take notes or organize your citations. It's the perfect solution for occasions when you're writing a paper and referencing a web page, and it has more natural-sounding voices than other platforms.

Best of all, it’s compatible with multiple browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Safari.

Try Speechify on Microsoft Edge

Speechify is an invaluable asset for working professionals, college students, and people with learning disabilities like ADHD and dyslexia. You can browse its extensive catalog of narrators and find the tone and accent you like the most.

Try it for free today and see why it's changed how many users consume written content.

FAQ

Does Edge have speech to text?

In addition to read-aloud functionalities, Microsoft Edge has a voice typing feature. Tap a text field in the web browser and hold "Win + H" to activate it.

How do I activate Windows text to speech?

Before activating Windows's text to speech option, ensure you've enabled "Narrator" in "Settings." Then follow these instructions:

1. Press “Win + Ctrl + N” to view “Narrator Settings.”
2. Click on "Use Narrator."

What is the purpose of speech to text?

Speech to text features make managing and interacting with devices and programs more convenient.

What is the keyboard shortcut for reading aloud in Microsoft Edge?

To start or pause reading aloud in Microsoft Edge, press "Ctrl + Shift U."