How screen readers work and why they matter

A screen reader is software that reads what's on the screen out loud so people who can't see can use a computer or phone. It converts text, buttons, and images into spoken words and lets users navigate using the keyboard instead of a mouse.

Screen readers are programs that read out everything happening on a screen. Text, buttons, menu options, images, and form fields. Instead of looking at a screen, a blind user listens to a voice describe what's there and uses keyboard commands to interact with it. This technology lets people with no vision use the same computers, websites, and phones as everyone else. Screen readers work best when websites and apps are designed with accessibility in mind, using proper labels and structure.