How to Listen to a Website

Reading online isn’t always easy — especially when you’re busy, have vision challenges, or simply prefer to listen while doing something else. The good news is that there are tools that can turn almost any website into audio. Here are some easy ways to start listening instead of reading.

Use What’s Already on Your Device

Most computers and phones already have “read aloud” tools built in. These tools are designed to make technology more accessible for everyone.

If you’re on Windows, the easiest option is Microsoft Edge’s Read Aloud feature. Open your webpage in Microsoft Edge and click the “Read Aloud” option or press Ctrl + Shift + U — the browser will start reading the text aloud.

On a Mac

For Mac users, VoiceOver is your built-in screen reader. To turn it on, press Command + F5. Once it’s active, your computer will begin reading aloud what’s displayed on the screen, from web pages to emails and documents.

If you’re using a smartphone or tablet, you can turn on built-in reading features right from your Settings. Go to Settings → Accessibility and look for options like Spoken Content or Select to Speak. Once turned on, you can simply swipe or tap text on your screen to have it read out loud.

Try a Free Browser Tool

If you prefer using a simple add-on, try the Read Aloud: Text to Speech extension for Chrome, Edge, or Firefox. Once it’s installed, you can click a speaker icon on any website and choose a voice or speed that works for you.

Overall, these built-in features are free, easy to access, and can make a real difference in how we experience online content. For some, they remove barriers to reading; for others, they simply make it easier to stay informed without straining their eyes. Whether you’re at your desk or on the go, “read aloud” tools help make technology a little more human — letting you listen, learn, and connect in a way that suits you best.