---
title: What is text-to-speech technology (TTS)?
description: Text-to-speech (TTS) is an assistive technology that reads aloud digital text. It can help with dyslexia and learning differences. Learn more.
slug: text-to-speech-technology-what-it-is-and-how-it-works
author: The Understood Team
reviewer: Jamie Martin
published: '2019-08-05T15:05:24.683Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/13CXodgud4fmPdqcfzJfWN/8c7f6d031e35ad6fbe2441fbb7868287/G1225783985.png
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/text-to-speech-technology-what-it-is-and-how-it-works
lang: en
---

# What is text-to-speech technology (TTS)?

Text-to-speech (TTS) is a type of assistive technology that reads digital text aloud. It’s sometimes called “read aloud” technology.

With a click of a button or the touch of a finger, TTS can take words on a computer or other digital device and convert them into audio. TTS is very helpful for kids and adults who struggle with reading. But it can also help with writing and editing, and even with focusing.

TTS works with nearly every personal digital device, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. All kinds of text files can be read aloud, including Word and Pages documents. Even online web pages can be read aloud.

---

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