Immersive Reader

Description

Immersive Reader is a free assistive reading tool from Microsoft, integrated into applications including Word, OneNote, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, Forms, Minecraft Education, and the Edge browser, designed to improve reading and writing comprehension for users of varying abilities.

Built into the Microsoft 365 suite and available across multiple platforms, the tool applies established techniques drawn from research into dyslexia and language learning. Features include text-to-speech narration with adjustable voice and speed, syllable breakdown, parts-of-speech highlighting (such as nouns, verbs and adjectives), a picture dictionary, line focus to isolate text, and adjustable text size, spacing and background colour.

Translation into multiple languages is also supported, allowing readers to view content in their preferred language alongside the original. In educational settings, Immersive Reader is used to support learners with dyslexia, dysgraphia, attention difficulties and English language learners, as well as emerging readers.

Teachers can enable the feature within OneNote class notebooks, Word documents, Teams assignments, Forms quizzes and Reading Progress activities to make text-based content more accessible. The tool is also embedded within the Edge browser, where it can reformat web pages for easier reading, and within Minecraft Education to support in-game text.

Developers can integrate Immersive Reader into third-party applications through the Azure AI Immersive Reader API.