Talking Browsers differ from screen readers. They are specially designed for reading webpages and they are a browser and screen reader combined.
Often these browsers have additional features, like allowing you to use the keyboard to navigate between links and also select which parts of the page you would like to read.
For more details of screen readers and how they work, see the RNIB factsheet on Speech Output Systems.
Possible problems
For this software to work properly, the website must be correctly designed. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Although there are guidelines for making pages accessible, not all companies follow these.
But if you are having problems with a website, remember that your right to access is likely to be covered by the Disability Discrimination Act. If you would like some support making a claim, contact Sue Brown in the campaigns team.
Who supplies Talking Browsers?
The following products are available:
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IBM Homepage Reader
IBM's website gives product information, feature list and an audio guide to the product. A free trial is available.
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SoundLinks
Company specialising in audio and speech access for the internet. Details of training, software and links to other sites.
