Computers can now speak in natural-sounding and high-quality voices. This article examines how a text to speech program uses speech synthesis to deliver those voices and how it can help you.
Text to speech software (TTS) computer voice
Having a computer speak to you sounds like an idea that comes straight from Star Trek, but with the advent of speech recognition and text to speech software, it’s no longer a science fiction fantasy. It’s real.
Computers can now speak in natural-sounding and high-quality voices. This article examines how a text to speech program uses speech synthesis to deliver those voices and how it can help you.
How does text to speech software work?
Text to speech (TTS) software works by reading digital text aloud in a human voice. It’s a little strange the first time you hear it, but this speech technology is essential for making the internet and digital media more accessible.
What is Speechify?
Speechify is a type of TTS software that provides an interactive way to read and learn. The platform reads text from web pages and other digital sources in your choice of voice and language.
The app also creates audio files you can download to read at your leisure.
Check out FAQ section
Would you like to dig a little deeper into how Speechify works? The FAQ section of the Speechify site answers common questions about how this TTS software operates in real-time to provide dictation of digital text.
You’ll find general information about the app for Apple iOS, Android, and Chrome, along with tutorials on installing the software. Note that the software also works on devices running Microsoft Windows.
Speechify computer voices
Speechify uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to create human-sounding voices. Users can choose from a wide range of voices.
Female voices
Gwyneth Paltrow (Celebrity American)
Mary (American English)
Stephanie (British)
Salli (American English)
Sarah (British)
Olivia (Australian English)
Lupe (Spanish)
Mia (Spanish)
Carla (Italian)
Vicki (German)
Lea (French)
Aditi (Hindi English)
Camila (Portuguese)
Tatyana (Russian)
Zhiyu (Chinese)
Zeina (Arabic)
Seoyeon (Korean)
Emma (American English)
Male voices
Matthew (English)
Narrator (British)
Harry (British)
Nate (American English)
Simon (American English)
Michael (British)
Erix (Australian English)
Miguel (Spanish)
Giorgio (Italian)
Hans (German)
Mathieu (French)
Ricardo (Portuguese)
Maxim (Russian)
Adjust voice/reading speed
It’s easy to adjust Speechify’s reading speed using the slide provided in the app. It features four main settings:
Slower
Average
Faster
Speed Reader
The reading speed spectrum ranges from 100 words per minute to 900.
When to use TTS
There are many reasons to use TTS technology:
TTS helps you learn complex aspects of language, such as punctuation. For example, it allows you to understand how to use phonemes. These are distinct sounds in a language that help separate one word from another.
Multitaskers love TTS because it enables them to listen to articles while they work.
Those with reading difficulties, such as people with dyslexia or visual impairments, can use TTS to read text transcriptions.
Many people use TTS to add narration to presentations or media. For example, you could use the software for voice elements of video games instead of paying a voice actor.
How to set up a Speechify account
Setting up a Speechify account is a simple task you can complete via the Speechify website.
Select “Login” from the navigation bar.
If you wish to use Google, Facebook, or Apple to log in, click the appropriate button. Otherwise, select “Create Account.”
Enter your email address and password before selecting “Sign Up.”
Enter your payment details and continue to start a three-day free trial of Speechify.
Note that Speechify offers free and premium tiers.
Speechify free account
Speechify’s free tier allows you to choose from 10 reading voices and listen anywhere using your mobile device. However, you can only listen at 1x the speed.
Speechify paid account
Speechify’s Premium account costs $139 annually, which works out to $11.58 monthly. You receive several features with a paid version:
Access to over 30 voices
Read in more than 20 languages
Customizable reading speed up to 900 words per minute
Scan and listen to any digital or printed text
Note-taking tools
Advanced skipping and text importing tools
Alternatives to Speechify
Several TTS readers offer varying types of subscriptions. Alternatives to Speechify include Murf.ai, NaturalReader, and TextAloud. However, Speechify has been known to have the most natural-sounding voices of all the text to speech processors. It also has the ability to translate text from a photo into speech, a function many other apps lack.
Next steps
Text to speech software has many uses. From something as simple as reading a piece of text to more complex applications, such as dubbing anime, TTS is incredibly flexible.
If you’re ready to try TTS technology, sign up for Speechify. A free account gives you access to the basics, with a Premium account letting you experience the full power of TTS.
FAQ
What is the computer voice called?
While the voice a TTS tool offers can have many names, the general term for a computer voice is speech synthesis.
How does a computer generate a voice?
It combines deep learning, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to create a human-like voice.
How do I voice type on my laptop?
To voice type on a Windows laptop, press the Windows logo key + H. Then, press the microphone key on the touch keyboard Windows shows you.
How do you make a voice over text?
Use TTS software to create an audio file. Editing software allows you to play that file over text.
How does voice recognition work?
Voice recognition software breaks speech down into small parts that a computer can recognize. Then, these small parts are converted into a digital format and analyzed using complex technology.
What are some of the drawbacks of a computer voice?
A computer voice may not always be able to speak with the same emotion as a human. The quality of these types of voices varies from software to software.
How can I change the voice of my computer?
Either use a different TTS reader or adjust the voice within your current reader. Speechify allows you to choose from over 30 voices.
How do you voice record on a computer?
You can record your voice using the Voice Recorder software in Microsoft Windows. Apple Macs have a similar software called Voice Memos. You can also use Speechify’s speech to text feature.
What is a voice synthesizer?
A voice synthesizer is any computer system designed to produce a human-like voice.
What are the different types of computer voice?
There are many computer voices, though all use artificial intelligence to mimic human speaking patterns.
