Screen readers interpret what is displayed on the screen—such as text, buttons, links, and images—and read it aloud or send it to a Braille device.
They rely heavily on well-structured HTML, semantic markup, and proper use of accessibility attributes (like alt text) to provide an accurate and meaningful experience.
Screen readers are vital for people with blindness or low vision, making it possible for them to navigate and interact with websites, applications, and digital documents.
For web designers and developers, ensuring compatibility with screen readers means crafting accessible, inclusive user experiences that meet legal and ethical standards.
Example
When a user with a screen reader visits a webpage, the software reads the page title, headings, link descriptions, and alt text on images aloud. If the page is properly coded, the screen reader can also announce form field labels, buttons, and dynamic content changes, allowing the user to interact confidently with the site.
Helpful Resources
Popular screen readers include:
- JAWS (Job Access With Speech) — Widely used commercial screen reader for Windows.
- NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) — Free, open-source screen reader for Windows.
- VoiceOver — Built-in screen reader for macOS and iOS devices.
- Narrator — Built-in screen reader for Windows.