Chrome to Enable PDFs to be Read Aloud
Google is set to introduce a new feature that will enhance the accessibility of PDFs for individuals with low vision. The feature, which involves the integration of OCR technology into Chrome, will convert PDFs into text that is more easily accessible, especially for those who rely on screen readers. Additionally, the tool will offer image descriptions.
The feature will be available “over the coming months,” Google says. The company also plans to expand beyond Chrome later this year, though it hasn’t said which platforms might get the update. We’ve asked Google for more information and will let you know if we get it back.
The introduction comes as part of a broader education effort that includes app licensing for school Chromebooks and free access to Adobe Express in the US. Administrators can also have tighter control over what students and faculty can access on their Chromebooks—banning students from copying and pasting text from certain websites, such as generative AI tools that can help them cheat on tests. In turn, it’s easier for users to turn off their camera or microphone regardless of which Chrome OS they’re on.
The read-aloud PDF feature is mainly intended for classrooms where it is easier for students with visual impairments to read scanned class material or relevant research articles. However, this also makes the internet more accessible to the general public. It’s not uncommon for websites to add terms of use or other important information to PDF files. The update makes this information available to more people.
