Accessible Web Browsing with Google Chrome
​and with Web Based Apps

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 Chrome Extension
  • ​Simple text-to-speech application for reading web content.
  • Select text, then click on extension icon or right-click on selected text, to have text read aloud.
  • Convenient play/pause/stop button.
  • Voice, reading-rate and keyboard shortcut can be set.
TTS ReaderX Chrome Extension
TTS ReaderX Web App
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  • Versatile text-to-speech for reading web content in Google Chrome.
  • Right-click selected text and click on 'Play Selection'
  • Alternatively, click extension icon to read entire web page aloud. Page content will be highlighted as read in text box.
  • High quality voices, with support for multiple languages.
  • Speech rate is adjustable, and can be quite slow.
  • App reads pdf and txt files.
Text to Speech with Google Drive Web App
  • copy and paste any text to have it read aloud
  • conveniently bring in files from Google Drive account
  • high quality voice 
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Read&Write Chrome Extension 
  • 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 free for teachers.
Equatio Chrome Extension
  • Extension for use in Google Docs, Slides, Sheets and Forms
  • [Also integrates with MS Word on Mac or PC, Equatio Mobile works on iOS or Android devices]
  • Extensive set of learning support tools for doing math and sciences digitally
  • Includes 'handwriting recognition' and voice input
  • Reads math aloud
  • Premium features free for teachers.
Readability Redux Chrome Extension
  • Alternative to Readability for removing clutter from websites
  • Customize margins, style, and font
  • Activate with customizable keyboard shortcut
Google Dictionary Chrome Extension
  • Double-click on words on webpage for definitions, with audio pronunciation.
  • Definition contains link to web search of the term. 
  • Definitions can be read aloud with TTS options.
  • Click on icon for search box to find defintion of any desired word.
VoiceNote II Chrome Extension
  • 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 Web App
  • 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.
Tab Resize - split screen layouts Chrome Extension
  • Open multiple windows in Chrome.
  • View multiple websites simultaneously.​
  • Windows may be tiled horizontally or vertically.