Browseaload 3.1 Launched

Texthelp Systems, Inc. has launched Browsealoud 3.1, the latest version of its text-to-speech software that reads website content aloud for those with literacy difficulties, dyslexia, mild visual impairments and people who have English as their second language.

Browsealoud adds speech to websites and PDF files when the user moves the cursor over the content. Each word is highlighted as it is spoken, either in English or other languages including Spanish, French, German and others. Browsealoud helps people with reading difficulties and those who find it easier to listen to, rather than read, website content. The service is free for the end-user and is easy to use.

Browsealoud 3.1 has been designed to be as Webmaster-friendly as possible. The client plug-in technology ensures a Webmaster has no software to install on a Web server. Additionally, Browsealoud 3.1 provides an instant solution and thus does not require any technical changes for accessing websites according to 508 or W3C standards.

Since the process of speech-enabling a site is handled remotely, there is no downtime on the website and no management overhead costs. Browsealoud automatically speaks new content when the site is updated and is ideal for dynamic website content. The new functionality in Browsealoud 3.1 includes:

• Speaks text aloud
• Highlights words as spoken
• New, improved customizable voices
• New PDF highlighting
• Dual color Web highlighting
• Reads forms online
• Reads accessible Flash
• Free pronunciation control
• Browsealoud 3.1 will read and highlight any PDF documents within the browser.

Browsealoud is used by government agencies such as Montgomery County, Maryland’s website as well as Canada Benefits. Browsealoud has also been adopted as the service of choice in the UK and Ireland in Cabinet Office, Home Office, British Council, NHS, Civil Service and the Information Commission. Other Browsealoud customers include London 2012, British Dyslexia Association, Disability Rights Commission, BT plc, NI Libraries and the CCEA. Browsealoud also has a Microsoft Gold product certification.

Source: TextHelp