The "text-to-speech function" is a software feature that converts texts or contents of a document, a web page, or an application into spoken language and then reads them aloud. This feature is particularly useful for individuals with visual impairments or learning difficulties, as well as for situations where it is practical to listen to texts while performing other activities.
Typical functions of software in the "text-to-speech function" area are:
Text-to-speech conversion: Conversion of written text into spoken language through synthetic speech output.
Customizable language settings: Ability to adjust the voice, speed, pitch, and volume of the speech according to personal preferences.
Text selection and highlighting: Ability to select and highlight the text to be read, to specifically listen to certain sections or passages.
Reading of documents and web pages: Ability to read texts from various sources such as documents, emails, web pages, eBooks, or other applications.
Text preview and navigation: Preview of the text before reading and navigation through the text during reading to track and edit the current location.
Pause and resume: Ability to pause the reading and resume later at the same point to allow interruptions.
Word emphasis and pronunciation: Correct emphasis on words and proper pronunciation of difficult or unusual terms by the speech output.
Support for multiple languages: Support for various languages and dialects to read texts in the preferred language.
Integration with other applications: Ability to integrate the text-to-speech function into other applications or programs for seamless usage.
Accessibility options: Implementation of accessibility options such as screen magnifier, contrast settings, or keyboard shortcuts to enhance accessibility for users with different needs.