ReachDeck Toolbar
Whether you are using a Smartphone, Tablet, PC or Mac, ReachDeck will provide the speech, reading and translation support tools you require for free.
ReachDeck is part of our website, so you do not need to install or buy any software to use it. It is available from the bottom right of each webpage via the ReachDeck icon.
ReachDeck adds speech, reading, and translation support tools to websites. ReachDeck makes online content more accessible for people with Dyslexia, Low Literacy, English as a Second Language, and those with mild visual impairments.
The Toolbar
There are several icons on the toolbar. Each button performs a different function - you can hear text read aloud, translate it, convert to MP3 and add a screen mask. You can magnify text, simplify web pages, and set your own personalised settings.
Text to Speech
ReachDeck reads text on a webpage out loud. There are two options, Hover to Speak and Speak the Current Selection. Hover to Speak is turned on by default when the toolbar is launched.
Translation
ReachDeck translates web pages into 99 languages and can speak aloud 40 of those, in a high quality, natural sounding native voice.
MP3 Generation
ReachDeck converts any text that you select from a web page, into an audio file that you can then listen to at a later date at home, or on the move.
Screen Mask
This feature allows you to apply a colour filter to your screen. A semi-opaque mask extends across the screen, leaving a letterbox reading window clear - the allows you to focus on a few lines at a time.
Text Magnification
With ReachDeck you have the option to magnify the text as it’s being read aloud. You can personalise the font, size and colour to suit your needs in settings.
Simplify
This feature removes the clutter and distractions, such as pictures and adverts, allowing you to focus on the text you want to read.
Settings
In the settings menu you can personalise the features to suit your own specific needs. You can personalise the following:
- Highlight colours for text to speech and text magnification
- Set text magnifier on as default
- Select the size of the magnified text
- Switch hover to speak off
- Select voice speed
- Set the simplify feature on as default
- Identify links on a webpage