ChromeVox (ChromeOS Screen Reader)

ChromeVox is the built-in screen reader for ChromeOS and Chromebooks, developed by Google. This page provides a general, product-specific overview of ChromeVox for educational purposes. It is not a clinical recommendation, and it does not suggest that ChromeVox is appropriate for every person who is blind or has low vision. Selection of a screen reader for a specific individual should be based on an individualized assessment of that person's needs, existing skills, and environment.

What ChromeVox Is

ChromeVox is Google's built-in screen reader for ChromeOS. It provides spoken access to supported ChromeOS interface elements, webpages, applications, and other accessible content, and it supports compatible refreshable Braille displays.

Who May Benefit

ChromeVox may be used by people who are blind or who have vision loss that makes visual computer access difficult. It may also be useful when built-in spoken access is needed on a Chromebook. As with any assistive technology, whether ChromeVox is a good fit for a particular individual depends on that person's needs, technology environment, and preferences, and should be determined through an individualized evaluation rather than a general recommendation. ChromeVox is not intended to replace every other screen reader.

ChromeOS Compatibility

ChromeVox is a built-in accessibility feature of ChromeOS, used on Chromebooks. It is not a general-purpose screen reader for Windows or macOS. ChromeVox on ChromeOS is separate from screen-reader support that may exist inside the Chrome browser on other operating systems; this page addresses ChromeVox on ChromeOS only. Check Google's official documentation for current details before relying on ChromeVox for a specific setup.

Cost and Availability

ChromeVox is built into ChromeOS and does not require a separate ChromeVox software purchase. This does not mean that Chromebook hardware itself is free; it means that once a supported Chromebook is obtained, ChromeVox is included as part of the operating system's accessibility features. This page does not make pricing comparisons with JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, or Windows Narrator.

Access and Source Information

ChromeVox is included with ChromeOS, so there is no separate ChromeVox download. Users can turn on ChromeVox through Chromebook Accessibility settings or the supported keyboard shortcut, described below. For complete information, refer to Google's official Chromebook accessibility documentation, linked in the Authoritative Resources section below, rather than third-party downloads or older Chrome extension links.

Basic Setup Considerations

ChromeVox settings can include options such as voice, language, speech rate, speech pitch, verbosity or spoken feedback, additional ChromeVox options, Sticky Mode, Braille settings when a compatible Braille display is used, and other Chromebook accessibility settings. These options can be adjusted through Chromebook Accessibility settings; this page is a general overview rather than a complete ChromeVox manual.

Quick Start and Stop

Start and stop: Press Ctrl + Alt + Z to turn ChromeVox on. Press the same key combination again to turn ChromeVox off; Google documents this as an on/off toggle that works from any page.

Tablet method: On supported ChromeOS tablets, Google documents pressing and holding Volume Down + Volume Up for approximately 5 seconds. The device gives an audible indication while the buttons are held, and ChromeVox then begins speaking. This hardware-button method is separate from the Ctrl + Alt + Z keyboard toggle and may not apply to every Chromebook form factor.

ChromeVox Modifier: Search or Launcher Key

Many ChromeVox commands use either the Search key or the Launcher key, depending on the Chromebook keyboard. Google currently states that these keys work the same for ChromeVox shortcuts where shown. If an external keyboard is used, the mapping should be confirmed in current Google documentation rather than assumed.

Basic Navigation Concepts

Basic navigation concepts include Tab and Shift+Tab to move among controls and arrow-key navigation. Many ChromeVox commands combine the Search or Launcher key with another key, such as Search or Launcher plus R to start reading from the current location, or Search or Launcher plus the period key to open the ChromeVox menu. Other commands support moving among headings, links, forms, tables, and landmarks, and touchscreen interaction is supported on compatible devices. This is not a complete command reference; consult Google's official ChromeVox documentation for complete details.

Sticky Mode allows ChromeVox commands to be entered without continuously holding the Search or Launcher key. Pressing the Search or Launcher key twice quickly enables Sticky Mode, and pressing it twice again disables Sticky Mode.

Common Accessibility Use Cases

ChromeVox is commonly used for tasks such as navigating ChromeOS, reading webpages, reading documents, using email, using Google Workspace applications, operating a Chromebook primarily by keyboard, and, on supported devices, touchscreen access and reading MathML-based math content. For people who read Braille, ChromeVox also supports use of a compatible refreshable Braille display. ChromeVox does not promise compatibility with every website, Android app, browser-based application, document, Braille display, or school or enterprise system.

Limitations and Considerations

Like any screen reader, ChromeVox's accessibility can vary by website, application, document, ChromeOS version, and configuration, and some Android or web applications may provide different accessibility experiences; some workflows may require additional training or practice. ChromeVox commands depend on the ChromeOS keyboard model and may reference either the Search or Launcher key. Braille compatibility depends on the specific supported display and configuration; Google maintains documentation on supported Braille connections. Individual access needs should be considered when selecting or configuring any screen reader. Inclusion on AssistiveTechnology.org is educational and does not constitute clinical prescription or product endorsement, and this page does not represent the position of any school district or employer.

Authoritative Resources

Google: Use the Built-In Screen Reader on Your Chromebook

Google: Turn On Chromebook Accessibility Features

Google: Use a Braille Device With Your Chromebook

Google: Chromebook Keyboard Shortcuts