Accessible Web Browsing with Google Chrome

Google Chrome

  • Chrome is probably the most accessible web browser. 
  • Access is facilitated by extensions created for the Chrome browser by Google and by third-party developers. These are available in the Chrome Web Store. Most are free. Click HERE for tutorial on installing, uninstalling and managing Chrome extensions. 
  • Web based applications that facilitate access have leveled the playing field and made other browsers increasingly accessible, eg. Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge. Accessibility extensions have also been created for these browsers.
  • Google Chrome runs well from a USB flash drive--with extensions.  

Chrome Extensions and Web Apps that Facilitate Access
TTS Reader (extension and web app)
  • Versatile text-to-speech for reading web content in Google Chrome.
  • Right-click selected text and choose 'Play Selection'
  • Alternatively, click extension icon to read entire web page aloud, with 'Readability' option to reduce clutter on page.
  • High quality voices, with support for multiple languages.
  • Speech rate is adjustable, and can be quite slow.
  • App will read pdf and txt files.
Text to Speech with Google Drive
  • copy and paste any text to have it read aloud
  • conveniently bring in files from Google Drive account
  • high quality voice 
​
Read&Write
  • Powerful learning support toolbar with impressive set of tools for use in Google Docs
  • Toolbar also works on web pages, with additional function of simplifying layout of the page
  • Text-to-speech available with high quality voice and dual color highlighting
  • Other tools include: Voice-to-Text; word prediction; multi color highlighting for note-taking; note extractor; talking dictionary; picture dictionary; translator; vocabulary builder
  • Text-to-speech remains free after trial, but premium features available only by paid subscription
  • Excellent video overview
  • ​All features available for free 30 day trial.
  • Premium features available free after trial for teachers.
Readability Redux
  • Alternative to Readability for removing clutter from websites
  • Customize margins, style, and font
  • Activate with customizable keyboard shortcut
Google Dictionary
  • Double-click on words on webpage for definitions, with audio pronunciation.
  • Definitions can be read aloud with TTS Reader.
  • Click on icon for search box to find defintion of any desired word.
VoiceNote II
  • Voice-to-text app for Google Chrome.
  • Collect dictated text in re-sizable box that can "float" in front of word processor, email program, etc.
  • Dictated text can be copied and pasted or dragged and dropped into document.
TalkTyper
  • Speech-to-text for Google Chrome, not an extension, but a site that functions only in Chrome.
  • Text-to-speech available for dictated text.
  • Alternatives provided for dictated text. eg. you or you've
  • Install Chrome extension Adblock Plus to automatically remove ads that may be inappropriate or distracting.
Split Screen (currently unavailable in Webstore)
  • Open multiple windows in Chrome.
  • View multiple websites simultaneously.
  • Note-taking window(s) available onscreen, along with website(s).
  • Windows may be tiled horizontally or vertically.