Enable/Disable Screen Reader in Ubuntu Linux
Orca is the built-in screen reader in Ubuntu Linux that reads text and button names aloud to help you navigate your screen. Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and later versions include this accessibility tool automatically so you do not need to download extra software.
You can turn the screen reader on or off quickly with a simple keyboard shortcut whenever you need it.
Open System Settings, navigate to Accessibility, then select Screen Reader. Toggle the switch to On to enable or Off to disable. Once enabled, it can also be controlled via the accessibility icon in the top bar.
How to enable or disable Screen Reader in Ubuntu Linux
The Ubuntu Screen Reader (a built-in tool that reads text aloud) helps you navigate your computer if you have trouble seeing the display. You can turn this feature on or off by opening Settings, going to the Accessibility section, and clicking on Seeing. From there, use the toggle switch next to Screen Reader to turn it on or off whenever you need it.
Turn the feature on or off in a few clicks when you no longer need spoken feedback.
Ubuntu Linux centralizes most of its settings. Manage system settings, user accounts, and updates from the System Settings panel.
To open it, click the System menu at the top-right corner of your desktop’s top bar, then select Settings, as highlighted below.
In the Settings app, click the Accessibility tile to open the panel.
Within the System Settings - Accessibility panel, under the Seeing section, select the Screen Reader tile to expand its options.
To enable the Screen Reader, toggle the switch to the On position. To disable it, toggle the switch back to Off.
Once enabled, you can quickly toggle the Screen Reader on and off by clicking the accessibility icon in the top bar and selecting 'Screen Reader'.
Your settings are now applied. You can close the Settings app.
You now know how to control the screen reader whether you prefer using the desktop interface or a quick keyboard shortcut.
Please use the comment form below if you find any errors above or have something to add.
- Enabling Screen Reader in Ubuntu Linux provides accessibility to users with limited vision or difficulty in reading text on the screen.
- The feature can be easily enabled or disabled through the System Settings panel under Accessibility.
- Once enabled, the Screen Reader can be controlled through the accessibility icon in the top bar, allowing for convenient toggling on and off.
- The tight integration of the Orca screen reader with Ubuntu Linux reflects the platform's commitment to enhancing accessibility for all users.
How to enable screen reader in Ubuntu?
To turn on the screen reader in Ubuntu, press the Super key (that's the Windows key on most keyboards) along with Alt and S together.
Is there a screen reader for Linux?
For comparison: Windows users might use Chrome with JAWS or NVDA, or Edge with Narrator. On Linux, Firefox typically pairs with Orca.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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