Open Access Assistive Technology Resources
A Guide to Free and Open Assistive Technology
Bionify
Highlights the most parts of words to help guide the eye when reading.
Digital Magnifiers
Increase the size of text and images
-
BigBrowserIOS: Internet browsing application designed to help Low Vision users more easily navigate the web on iPads.
-
BookshareWeb/Desktop: Accessible online library that is free for someone with a print disability; partner mobile apps listed in “Screen Reader” section
-
Magnifying GlassTurn your phone into a digital magnifier.
-
Supervision+IOS: Magnifying glass app that offers a supreme live image stabilization capability
Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
Convert images of text into machine-readable text formats
-
EvernoteIOS: Scannable captures paper documents, transforming them into high-quality scans ready to save or share
-
Microsoft LensAndroid/IOS: Trims, enhances, and makes pictures of whiteboards and documents readable
-
OCRSpaceWeb/Desktop: Free Online OCR - Convert images and PDF to text
-
Online OCRWeb/Desktop: Picture to text converter allows you to extract text from image or convert PDF to Doc, Excel or Text formats
using Optical Character Recognition software online -
PhotoscanAndroid: Photo Scan extracts text from photos and Scans/Generates QR Codes
-
Simple OCRWeb/Desktop: SimpleOCR makes available every kind of OCR solution from PDF Converters to Enterprise Data Capture, OCR Servers and Handprint Recognition for Forms and Surveys
Physical Text to PDF
Scan text, create PDF and JPEG files, and apply OCR to recognize and read texts aloud
-
CamScannerAndroid, IOS, & Web/Desktop: Scan, save, search, and upload - easily manage documents anytime, anywhere
Screen Readers
Read digital texts aloud
-
Adobe PDF ReaderWeb/Desktop: View, sign, collaborate on and annotate PDF files. Has "Read Out Loud" tool.
-
BalabolkaWeb/Desktop: Text-To-Speech (TTS) program. All computer voices installed on your system are available to Balabolka
-
Dolphin EasyReaderAndroid: EasyReader is a free app which makes reading more accessible for readers who are visually impaired, have a neurodiverse condition such as dyslexia or any other print impairment (Also pairs with Bookshare)
-
HelperbirdWeb/Desktop: Over 32 accessibility & productivity features built to support every kind of reader, learner, and writer. Includes dyslexia support
-
Immersive ReaderWeb/Desktop: Uses proven techniques to improve reading for people regardless of their age or ability.
-
JAWS Screen Reading SoftwareWeb/Destop: Assistive technology products for blind and low vision individuals
-
OrbitNoteUse your UMGC email address and password to access this platform for free.
-
Natural Reader (Play button)Web/Desktop: Upload text and documents or convert to mp3 to listen to anywhere anytime
-
Read & Write GoldWeb/Desktop: Boost reading and writing confidence across all types of content and devices, in class, at work, and at home
-
Read Me!Web/Desktop: ReadMe! is the first e-reader app to offer BeeLine Reader, an award-winning tool for reading more efficiently
-
SpeechifyAndroid, IOS & Web/Desktop: Turns any written text into spoken words in natural-sounding language