{"id":8913,"date":"2025-06-30T20:34:50","date_gmt":"2025-06-30T20:34:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/voice.ai\/hub\/?p=8913"},"modified":"2025-09-15T18:23:38","modified_gmt":"2025-09-15T18:23:38","slug":"text-to-speech-google-docs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/voice.ai\/hub\/tts\/text-to-speech-google-docs\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Set Up And Use Text-to-Speech in Google Docs Like A Pro"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
Editing long documents can be a challenge, mainly when you can\u2019t focus or get overwhelmed by reading. Letting Google Docs read to you can take the pressure off and make the process more enjoyable. Thanks to advancements in Text to Speech Technology, you can now have your documents read aloud with natural-sounding voices, helping you catch errors, improve flow, and stay focused. This article will help you get started with Text To Speech Google Docs, so you can make Google Docs read your text out loud with ease\u2014allowing you to edit faster, focus better, and work more accessibly without getting overwhelmed by long reading sessions. Chasing a more enjoyable editing experience? Try smart text to speech solution<\/a> to have your Google Docs read aloud, making it easier to catch errors and stay focused.<\/span><\/p>\n\n Text to speech (TTS)<\/a> is a modern accessibility feature that allows users to transform written text into spoken words. This functionality assists individuals with reading or learning disabilities, as well as those who prefer auditory learning. The technology also aids multitasking, as you can listen to text content while engaged in other activities. Google Docs<\/a> is a cloud-based word processing tool from Google, accessible via the Chrome browser and other web browsers. Part of the broader Google Workspace suite, it provides real-time collaboration features, enabling multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously from different locations. With Google Docs, users can format text, add links, insert images, and utilize various templates to streamline document creation. It also supports voice typing, extensive comment and revision capabilities, and the ability to track changes made by collaborators.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n Integrated with Google Drive, it provides robust sharing options, allowing users to control who views or edits their documents. This platform is accessible from any device with internet connectivity, making it an ideal solution for individuals, educational institutions, and businesses seeking a flexible and dynamic word processing tool.<\/p>\n\n Whether you’re someone who learns better through listening, seeking ways to enhance content accessibility, or merely wishing to give your eyes a break, the benefits of using text-to-speech are manifold. Some of the advantages of including text-to-speech on the Google Docs workflow are:<\/p>\n\n Google Docs text-to-speech ensures accessibility to users with visual impairments or learning disabilities. It aids in comprehension by reading aloud selected text.<\/p>\n\n Listen to your Google Docs document while working on other tasks, ideal for busy professionals.<\/p>\n\n With support for different languages, you can hear the correct pronunciation and intonation, assisting in language learning.<\/p>\n\n Some people are auditory learners and can comprehend or retain information better when they hear it. Text-to-speech can be invaluable for this demographic.<\/p>\n\n Listening to your content can make it easier to catch errors, awkward phrasing or formatting, and repetitive words, leading to cleaner and more effective writing.<\/p>\n\n By providing an auditory option, content creators can cater to a broader audience, including those who might not be fluent readers in a particular language or those with varying abilities.<\/p>\n\n For those who spend prolonged hours in front of screens, listening instead of reading can give the eyes a much-needed break, reducing fatigue and potential long-term strain.<\/p>\n\n Engaging multiple senses can lead to a deeper connection with the content. Hearing a document can provide a different perspective and improve overall engagement with the material.<\/p>\n\n Text to speech can be convenient for mobile users. Whether you’re on a commute or walking, you can keep up with important documents without needing to focus on a screen.<\/p>\n\n Many text-to-speech tools, including the one in Google Docs, offer adjustable settings such as speed and voice type. This allows users to tailor the listening experience to their preferences.<\/p>\n\n Google Docs does not have a built-in text-to-speech feature, but it works with third-party tools to provide the functionality. Here\u2019s how to get started with TTS on Google Docs using accessibility options in your browser.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n To enable your screen reader software to speak for Google Docs, you must first enable it. To\u00a0<\/p>\n\n Do that:<\/p>\n\n Now everything is set up. Click the \u201cAccessibility<\/em>\u201d option from the top of your screen in Google Docs. Now click \u201cSpeak<\/em>\u201d and then choose \u201cSpeak Selection.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n\n These steps will initiate the text-to-speech of the selected content in your Google Docs, so ensure that you select the text with your cursor before proceeding to this step. For an easier experience, you can use the \u201cCtrl + Alt + X<\/em>\u201d keyboard shortcut after selecting the text.<\/p>\n\n The accessibility features on Android devices enable us to use the TTS feature on the Google Docs app, although there is no built-in option. You need to set up the accessibility option in your device’s settings.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n Then you can read aloud any Google Docs documents by selecting the text and navigating through different parts of the document. Here\u2019s how to use Google Docs TTS on Android.<\/p>\n\n To enable this feature, open the device settings and navigate to the accessibility section. There, you will find the \u201cSelect to Speak<\/em>\u201d feature.<\/p>\n\n Tap on \u201cSelect to Speak<\/em>\u201d and tap \u201cOK<\/em>.\u201d Enabling this feature will allow it to work for you. Now, you can head to the Google Docs document and select the text that you want to read out loud.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n After you select the text, a text-to-speech icon will appear on the lower-right of the screen, or a speech option will show in a pop-up menu. You can use the available option, and your Android device will automatically start speaking the selected text.<\/p>\n\n iPhone offers great accessibility features. Since the Google Docs app does not come with a built-in TTS feature, we can use the accessibility options on an iPhone to read the content of Google Docs aloud. By default, this feature is disabled; follow the steps below to enable it.<\/p>\n\n To do Google Docs text-to-speech on your iPhone, you first need to enable the Spoken Content accessibility settings. Open settings and search for \u201cSpeak Selection<\/em>.\u201d Tap the first option from the search results and toggle the \u201cSpeak<\/em> Selection<\/em>\u201d feature.<\/p>\n\n Now, go to the Google Docs application on your iPhone and open the document of your choice. Tap and hold the text to select it, then set the starting and ending points according to your requirements. As you select some text, a pop-up menu with multiple options will appear. Use the \u201cRight<\/em> Arrow<\/em>\u201d to navigate through different options and tap \u201cSpeak<\/em>\u201d once you see it. The selected text in the Google Docs application will now be read aloud.<\/p>\n\n If the text-to-speech feature is not working for Google Docs, some possible issues can be easily fixed if you know the cause. Here, we\u2019ve shared some common problems and their fixes that you might encounter.<\/p>\n\n If you\u2019re using Google Docs on a browser on your desktop computer, there may be a browser issue. Your browser may be outdated or incompatible with Google Docs’ text-to-speech feature, or an extension could be causing the conflict. The best solution is to try it with a different browser to determine where the issue lies.<\/p>\n\n Have you done all the settings perfectly, but are still unable to hear the text-to-speech voice? You likely have an issue with your device’s audio settings. Sometimes, we unknowingly turn the audio off or mute it entirely. A quick fix is to turn the audio volume up and play another audio file to ensure the speakers are working correctly.<\/p>\n\n Google Docs works online, and a stable internet connection is crucial for all of its features. Therefore, if TTS is not working, it may be due to poor network connectivity. Reconnecting to the network or trying a different internet connection will solve the issue.<\/p>\n\n The TTS feature in Google Docs relies on Accessibility settings, and if you don\u2019t have that set up for your device, the feature won\u2019t work. So, ensure that your accessibility settings are set up to allow text-to-speech and aloud reading of the content.<\/p>\n\n In lieu of a screen reader, users can also use add-ons to give Google Docs a text-to-speech feature. Simply follow this tutorial to install your add-on.<\/p>\n\n If you\u2019d like the simplest text-to-speech experience on Google Docs and the most realistic voices, we recommend installing the Speechify Chrome extension.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n Here\u2019s how to get started:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n A few more Chrome extensions for Google Docs text-to-speech include the following:<\/p>\n\n Read Aloud is a Chrome extension that allows you to read text from web pages, including Google Docs. It highlights the text it reads and will enable you to control the reading speed and voice. It can also translate the text into different languages and supports multiple AI voice options. To use the extension, follow these steps.<\/p>\n\n Select and Speak is a text-to-speech extension that can read text from web pages, including Google Docs. It has options to adjust the voice, pitch, and speed. To use Select and Speak, simply:<\/p>\n\n SpeakIt! is a popular text-to-speech extension that can read text from Google Docs and other web pages. It offers a range of voice options, including 50 different languages, and allows you to adjust the reading speed. To utilize the SpeakIt! Extension, use the following steps:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n ReadSpeaker TextAid is an accessibility extension that can read text within Google Docs. It also offers text highlighting and other features to support reading. ReadSpeaker TextAid for Chrome is easy to use and only requires the following setup:<\/p>\n\n Read&Write for Google Chrome is a comprehensive literacy support tool that includes text-to-speech features for Google Docs. It offers natural-sounding voices and other assistive tools. To access Read&Write, follow these steps:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n If you wish to experience Google Docs text-to-speech on a mobile device, you can do so by using the iOS or Android app. Mobile device apps for Google Docs text-to-speech include the following:<\/p>\n\n Voice Dream Reader is a feature-rich iOS-only app that seamlessly integrates with Google Docs, offering customizable text-to-speech functionality and a wide selection of natural-sounding voices, enhancing the reading experience for users with diverse preferences.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n To use the app, simply:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n NaturalReader is a user-friendly text-to-speech app for both iOS and Android, known for its simplicity and clear, lifelike voice options, making it an accessible choice for those seeking straightforward text-to-speech conversion within their Google Docs documents. Here\u2019s a tutorial on how to pair NaturalReader and Google Docs:<\/p>\n\n Google Text-to-Speech is a Google app that provides text-to-speech functionality not only for Google Docs but across various Android applications, offering spoken feedback and enhancing accessibility on Android devices. Using the app is straightforward and consists of the following steps:<\/p>\n\n TalkBack is an essential accessibility service for Android users, offering spoken feedback and navigation support, making Google Docs and other apps accessible to individuals with visual impairments. To use TalkBack, follow this guide:<\/p>\n\n Voice Aloud Reader is an iOS and Android app that can be used in conjunction with Google Docs, providing a range of voice options and customizable features to cater to various text-to-speech needs. Follow this tutorial to check out Voice Aloud Reader:<\/p>\n\n ClaroSpeak, available on multiple platforms, including Android and iOS, can be integrated with Google Docs, providing high-quality text-to-speech capabilities, voice choices, and text highlighting for improved document reading and comprehension. To access ClaroSpeak, use this tutorial:<\/p>\n\n Stop spending hours on voiceovers or settling for robotic-sounding narration. Voice.ai’s text-to-speech tool delivers natural, human-like voices that capture emotion and personality, perfect for content creators, developers, and educators who need professional audio fast. Choose from our library of AI voices, generate speech in multiple languages, and transform your projects with voiceovers that actually sound real. Try our text-to-speech tool for free today and hear the difference quality makes.<\/p>\n\n Now, if you\u2019re all about customizing things to your liking, Google Docs has got you covered with text-to-speech.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n Check out these options:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n You can customize and personalize your text-to-speech experience by adjusting the options available. It\u2019s all about tailoring it to your individual needs and preferences!<\/p>\n\n
Voice AI’s text to speech tool<\/a> is a valuable resource that can help you reach your editing goals. This easy-to-use tool can make Google Docs read your text out loud in just a few clicks, so you can get back to the work that matters.\u00a0<\/p>\nWhy Use Text-To-Speech on Google Docs?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n
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Learning how to use text-to-speech (TTS) on Google Docs can help improve accessibility for individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties, while also boosting productivity by allowing for multitasking and enhancing comprehension.\u00a0<\/p>\n\nGoogle Docs Overview<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Benefits of using Text in Google Docs\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Accessibility<\/h4>\n\n
Multitasking<\/h4>\n\n
Language Learning<\/h4>\n\n
Enhanced Learning and Comprehension<\/h4>\n\n
Proofreading<\/h4>\n\n
Inclusivity<\/h4>\n\n
Reduced Eye Strain<\/h4>\n\n
Increased Engagement<\/h4>\n\n
Flexibility<\/h4>\n\n
Customization<\/h4>\n\n
Related Reading<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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How to Use Text To Speech Google Docs Functions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n
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1. Enable Screen Reader for Google Docs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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2. Use the Accessibility Option for Text-to-Speech<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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Use TTS on Google Docs for Android<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
1. Go to Accessibility Settings on Your Device<\/h4>\n\n
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2. Turn on Select to Speak<\/h4>\n\n
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Use TTS on Google Docs for iPhone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
1. Enable Spoken Content Settings on iPhone<\/h4>\n\n
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2. Select Text in Google Docs and Tap Speak<\/h4>\n\n
Google Docs Text-to-Speech Not Working? Fixed!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n1. Browser Issues<\/h4>\n\n
2. Device Audio Settings<\/h4>\n\n
3. Network Problems<\/h4>\n\n
4. Accessibility Settings Issue<\/h4>\n\n
Use an Add-on for Text-to-Speech on Google Docs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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Use a Chrome Extension for Text-to-Speech on Google Docs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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Other Chrome Extensions for Text-to-Speech on Google Docs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Read Aloud<\/h4>\n\n
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Select and Speak<\/h4>\n\n
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SpeakIt!<\/h4>\n\n
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ReadSpeaker TextAid for Chrome<\/h4>\n\n
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Read&Write for Google Chrome<\/h4>\n\n
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Use an App for Text-to-Speech on Google Docs on Mobile Devices<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Voice Dream Reader<\/h4>\n\n
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NaturalReader<\/h4>\n\n
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Google Text-to-Speech<\/h4>\n\n
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TalkBack<\/h4>\n\n
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Voice Aloud Reader<\/h4>\n\n
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ClaroSpeak<\/h4>\n\n
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Related Reading<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
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Tips and Tricks for Using Text-to-Speech on Google Docs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n
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Pro Tips for Successfully Changing Text to Speech in Google Docs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n