Screen Reading & Low Vision Technology
Screen Reading Software
JAWS (Windows)
JAWS or Job Access With Speech was developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse. JAWS provides speech and Braille output for the most popular computer applications on your Windows PC. You will be able to navigate the Internet, write a document, read an email and create presentations from your office, remote desktop, or from home.
JAWS software is available to users through the NCSU Software Portal
NVDA (Windows)
NVDA is a free or donationware screen reading software available for Windows PCs. You can download it directly from NV ACCESS. Training Videos are available through the American Foundation for the Blind: Learn NVDA.
VoiceOver (Mac & IOS devices)
VoiceOver is a native screen reader available on Mac and iOS devices. VoiceOver is a built-in screen reader that describes aloud what appears on your computer screen: it speaks the text that’s in documents and windows. To turn on VoiceOver, press Command-F5. When VoiceOver is on, you can use VoiceOver commands to navigate and interact with items on the screen. Apple VoiceOver User Guide
Magnification
All devices have tools to make looking at your device easier on your eyes.
- Make your Windows PC easier to see
- Make your Mac, iPad, or iPhone easier to see
- Make your Android Device easier to see
- Making the Chrome Browser easier to see
- How to make your Chromebook easier to see (video)
Blue Light Filters
Blue light filters can help to reduce eye strain. Most devices have blue-lift filtering options available. Windows and Mac have their own blue light filters and there are a number of third-party apps available as well.
- Windows – Night Light
- Mac – Night Shift
- Windows, Mac, Linux – Iris Mini
- Windows, Mac, Linux- f.lux
- Blue Light Filters on your Mobile Phone
If you would like more information on AT for Blindness or Low Vision, please email accessiblity@ncsu.edu .