Text to speech apps are not only for visually impaired people. Every android user should have one text to speech app in their phone. They are of great use and a must-have for everyone. You will understand its benefits once you actually get to use one.
You can easily listen to the morning news on your way to work. You can listen to the new text messages you received while you are still in bed or you can even listen to an audiobook without lifting one finger.
In our fast-paced digital age, the ability to consume information effortlessly is more important than ever. One technology that has been an invaluable asset in this regard is Text-to-Speech (TTS) apps.
These applications have become increasingly popular for multiple uses, from assisting those with reading disabilities to aiding multitaskers.
In this SEO-optimized article, we will explore what Text-To-Speech apps are, their benefits, how safe they are, how to use them on your phone, and whether these applications are free.
What is Text-To-Speech Apps?
Text-To-Speech apps are specialized software that converts written text into spoken words. This technology uses complex algorithms and pre-recorded voices to read out the text displayed on your device.
The applications range from simple TTS engines built into smartphones to more complex apps designed for accessibility, learning, and multitasking.
7 Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Android
We are here to present you with the best 7 text to speech apps for android. You can easily get them and most of them are free. If you want to know which one is the best for you then you need to take your time and have a look at this list. Without any further ado let’s get right into it.
1. Android’s Native Text-to-Speech Feature
Android has several features and this includes a built in text to speech feature. It is generic in nature and simple. It has less customizable settings which allow third party apps to run their business. People usually don’t even know they have this built in feature in their phone.
It offers the read aloud feature for every google apps that has that option. In order to use this feature in other apps you need to enable Select To Speak in the settings. This is very useful feature and if you want to check this feature out there is no better place or time to start.
2. Voice Aloud Reader
This one is very easy to use with a simple interface. It offers a different way of reading. You can send the text from a particular app to the Voice Aloud Reader using the Android share menu and it will give you a reading. This can also work for tweets and Facebook posts.
You can also use the share option after selecting the text that you want to be read aloud. It also works with URLs. You just need to copy and paste the link. It is intelligent enough to leave out the junk.
3. Narrator’s Voice
This one is a bit different. The options you are offered here is that it can read text, apps, messages, websites. That’s normal but it has s special fun feature where you add effects to the voice like echo, choir, etc. It also offers a number of different voices and tones that you can select.
The Alexa and Cortana voices are also present. It also includes some of their own creations like pink sheep. It is a great text to speech app that you must try at least once. We promise you won’t regret it.
4. TalkFree
It is a basic text to speech app. This one is simple and minimal. If you are a straightforward person then this one is for you. This app can take the texts from your browser and read it aloud to you like a good little robot. You can export all your audio files and save them offline too.
It is important to note that this app actually relies on your phone in built text to speech engine. If by any way you have deleted it then download the google text to speech app from the play store for free.
5. T2S
This text to speech app is one of the most valuable and modern text to speech app ever. It has an up to date interface that makes it stand out from the rest. It also has a built in web browser. H
ow cool is that! You can now easily listen to the web pages without worrying about copy pasting the URLs. This app allows you to save the audio and if you so wish you can also share it with others. It is free of cost but the pro version removes the ads.
6. TK Solution Text to Speech
The next one on our list is this one. It has the usual features of the text to speech app. It supports a variety of languages. It also has space Where you can write down your own text and the app will read it out to you. It has a special feature too.
It’s called vocal input. You can tap on the microphone and then speak in it. Then you can listen to the synthesized version of what you just said. On the downside, there is a disadvantage that we couldn’t ignore. The design and layout of this app is not good at all.
7. Pocket
You might have heard about this app. It allows you to save articles and read them later when you are offline. It also has a text to speech feature. It supports a number of voices and languages. You can also adjust the pitch of the voice.
The app also has play back feature which means you can use this app while using another app. That’s a great advantage over the others. It is usually free but they also offer a premium ad-free version if you want it.
Benefits of Text-To-Speech Apps
Accessibility
One of the primary advantages of TTS apps is that they make content more accessible. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with visual impairments or dyslexia, making it easier for them to consume written material.
Multitasking
TTS apps allow you to listen to written content while doing other tasks, making them ideal for multitasking.
Learning
For students and avid learners, TTS apps can improve comprehension and retention of information by engaging multiple senses.
Convenience
These apps are particularly useful for reading long articles, reports, or documents when you’re on the go.
Is Text-To-Speech Apps Safe?
Generally speaking, Text-to-Speech apps are safe to use. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Data Privacy: Some TTS apps may require access to your files or documents. Make sure to read the privacy policy to know how your data will be used.
- Permissions: Be cautious about the permissions the app requests on your device. If an app asks for permissions that aren’t relevant to its functionality, that’s a red flag.
How Do I Use Text-To-Speech on My Phone?
Android
- Settings: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Text-to-Speech output.
- Choose Engine: Select the TTS engine you want to use.
- Voice Data: Download any necessary voice data and adjust the speech rate and pitch as desired.
iOS
- Settings: Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Speech.
- Enable: Toggle on ‘Speak Selection’ or ‘Speak Screen’ as per your needs.
- Customize: You can choose different voices and adjust the speaking rate.
Is Speech Apps Free?
The pricing of Text-To-Speech apps varies. While many smartphones come with built-in TTS engines that are free to use, specialized apps can range from free versions with limited features to premium apps with advanced functionalities. Some also offer a freemium model where basic features are free, but advanced functionalities require a subscription.
Conclusion
We hope that this article was up to the mark. It is extremely useful to have a text to speech app. There are a number of them out there. You need to take your pick after doing some research. We tried our best to include the top 7 apps in our list.
There are others out there but we think that everyone can find a suitable one among the aforementioned list. Once again thank you for giving this article a read and we hope that you are satisfied and do recommend this article to your friends and family if you think we will be able to help their doubts and questions too.
Now you can appreciate the use of the text to speech apps. Let us know about your experience.
Text-to-Speech apps are a versatile tool with applications spanning accessibility, multitasking, and learning. While most TTS apps are safe to use, caution should be exercised in terms of data privacy and permissions.
Most smartphones have built-in TTS capabilities, and there are numerous apps available to suit various needs, both free and paid. With the wide array of options and benefits, Text-to-Speech apps are indeed a valuable asset in our digital toolkit.