How to Listen to Text on your iPhone and Computer

I’ve been using a text-to-speech tool for the past 4 months, and it's significantly improved my ability to learn. Text-to-speech tools have come a long way since I first started looking for them years ago.

Being undiagnosed with dyslexia, I read slowly, which is a real challenge. A friend shared a way to set up my Kindle to read aloud, and it works for anything on my iPhone. I also set up my computer for text-to-speech.

For those with different devices, a quick Google search can offer solutions! 🙂 Best of all, these tools are free.

On my Windows laptop, I use speechify.com. Initially, it reads with a "nice" voice for a few minutes before switching to a more robotic voice. The robot voice doesn't bother me, but you can pay for the pleasant voice all the time.

On my iPhone and iPad, I've set up the “Speak Screen" which always uses a robotic voice, but that doesn't bother me either.

I also bought a small speaker I carry around while doing chores.

However, there's an issue with the Speak Screen function on the iPhone or iPad. Movement can confuse it and make it stop. Here's how I deal with that:

When doing chores or yard work, and I want to go through blog posts, Kindle books, email threads, or Facebook threads, I put the small speaker in my pocket or nearby and set up my device close by. I position the reader where I want it to start and then continue with my work. This prevents interruptions caused by the device moving around.

I hope this helps anyone who prefers listening to text rather than reading it for whatever reason!