Easy Tech TutsHow to Get Google Docs to Read to You Easily 2026
By Impran M N
If you'd rather listen to a document than stare at a screen, Google Docs has several ways to read your text back to you. This guide walks through turning on screen reader support, using browser-based read-aloud tools, and adjusting playback so you can proofread or review reports hands-free.
01Turn on accessibility screen reader support
Open your document's accessibility settings to activate native screen reader compatibility, which lets Google Docs announce text as you navigate.
02Use keyboard shortcuts to read selected text
Once accessibility support is active, keyboard shortcuts let you trigger read-aloud tracking over a selected paragraph or an entire page.
03Try browser-based read-aloud tools
Desktop browsers like Microsoft Edge (Read Aloud) and Google Chrome (Reading Mode) can read your document text fluidly without extra setup inside Docs itself.
04Adjust playback speed and voice
Use the text-to-speech customization controls to change reading speed, pause and resume, and switch between different voice profiles.
05Listen on mobile
On Android and iOS, mobile accessibility features like Select to Speak or Spoken Content let you listen to your Google Docs files directly in the app.
Frequently asked questions
Can Google Docs read my document out loud without extensions?
Yes, by enabling the built-in accessibility screen reader support or using a browser's native read-aloud feature, you don't need to install anything extra.
Can I change the reading voice or speed?
Yes, the text-to-speech controls let you adjust playback speed and switch between available voice profiles.
Does this work on my phone?
Yes, mobile accessibility tools such as Select to Speak on Android or Spoken Content on iOS can read your Google Docs files aloud in the app.
Will it read tables and complex layouts correctly?
Complex layouts and tables can sometimes cause reading order issues, so it helps to check pronunciation and skip problematic sections manually if needed.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
