Inclusive technology just got better with the launch of a powerful tool for web accessibility. Offering the latest in text-to-speech technology for anyone on the Internet, regardless of computer, browser, operating platform or connection speed, it's designed by leading voice-on-the-web service provider ReadSpeaker...

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ReadSpeaker XT, soft-launched on 27 April, pushes the accessibility envelope.

Independent studies have shown that people find it easier to use websites with speech, and ReadSpeaker aims to make the Internet accessible for people with dyslexia, learning difficulties and low vision while also appealing to those who prefer to listen as well as read Internet content.

The new version of ReadSpeaker XT enables any website to be speech-enabled with a natural sounding localised voice. Maintaining its unique approach to spoken web content, the XT version incorporates ReadSpeaker's tried and tested server-based platform with a brand new interface.

New ReadSpeaker XT functionality makes it possible for users to:

•  Control how a web page is read: Users can decide how text and links are read within a web page. For example, text can be highlighted as the user listens to the page and the user can tab through links and listen to them as they go along.

•  Personalise the ReadSpeaker XT interface: Users can change the layout of the ReadSpeaker function panels with a choice of text or images for each button, which is available in different sizes.

•  Determine the reading speed: Users can select five different levels of reading speed.

•  Select a text-version: Users have the option to select a text-only version of a web page, with the ability to customise font, font size, background colour and images.

Building on the success of previous ReadSpeaker products, the XT version requires no download or plugins for the end-user, and no backend programming is required by the website.

According to Carin Lennartsson, UK director of ReadSpeaker: "A new digital divide is being created by people who find it difficult or impossible to use the Internet, and adding speech is a real breakthrough in making websites more user-friendly and less intimidating. We believe accessibility shouldn't be dependent on the instruments you have, and we are committed to making the spoken web a reality for everyone."

ReadSpeaker XT can read all file formats including Word, RTF and PDF, and works on any browser with connection speeds of 33.6Kbps and above. The new version has already been released in Sweden, and will be available commercially in the UK within the next few months.

About ReadSpeaker:

ReadSpeaker is a server-based product that speech-enables a website for the benefit of people who would like to listen as well as read. No backend programming is required by the website, and no downloads or plug-ins needed by the visitor. ReadSpeaker can read most file formats and works with most content management systems. It works on any browser with connection speeds of 33.6k and up. Two versions of ReadSpeaker are currently available in the UK: ReadSpeaker Navigator supports text-to-speech navigation of a whole website, while ReadSpeaker SayIT is designed for less accessible sites and can speech-enable small text areas. Current UK clients include the Disability Rights Commission, British Dyslexia Association, Mencap and local and central government sites. RedSpeaker

For further information or a preview of ReadSpeaker XT please contact Wendy McAuliffe or Michelle Forsyth at Midnight Communications readspeaker@midnight.co.uk