screenreading

Screen reading, also known as screenreading, refers to the use of a screen reader to access digital content by reading aloud or braille. It enables users who are blind or have low vision to interact with computers, phones, and other devices by converting on-screen information into synthetic speech or tactile output. Screen readers rely on the device’s accessibility APIs to discover UI elements and content.

They navigate interfaces using a keyboard or gesture, with commands to read by line, word, or element type, and to announce headings, form fields, links, and errors. They also describe images via alt text and can render content in braille on a refreshable display.

Common screen readers include NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver on desktop and iOS, TalkBack on Android, and ChromeVox for Chrome OS. Some are platform-specific, others are cross-platform. Many desktop readers integrate with browsers to interpret web content.

For content creators, accessibility best practices include using semantic HTML, providing alternative text for images, proper labeling of form controls, and avoiding dynamic content that is not announced. Use of ARIA should be careful and not override native semantics. Captions and transcripts also aid multisensory access.

Screen reading is central to digital inclusion, supporting education, work, and access to public information. Ongoing challenges include maintaining compatibility with complex web apps, dynamic content, and ensuring affordable access to assistive technologies.