What is a screen reader?

A screen reader is software that interprets the visual information displayed on a device’s screen and converts it into voice output or digital braille. This type of technology allows people who are blind or have low vision to navigate digital interfaces, read content, fill out forms and use applications fluently.

What is it for?

Its main objective is to make digital information accessible, eliminating visual barriers through an auditory or tactile interface. It is not only used on web pages, but also in emails, documents, mobile applications, and more.

How does a screen reader work on the web?

Screen readers do not read “the screen” itself, but rather the underlying code, especially the semantic structure of HTML. They interpret tags such as

,

,

A page with a good semantic structure radically improves the user experience.

Examples of popular screen readers

There are various screen readers, each with specific characteristics. Below, we show you the most used ones:

1. NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

• Free and open source.
• Widely used by developers for accessibility testing.
• Compatible with Windows.

2. JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

• Paid, but with extensive professional functions.
• Excellent technical support and customization.
• Widely used in corporate environments.

3. VoiceOver

• Integrated into Apple devices (macOS, iOS).
• Fluid and efficient.
• Supports touch navigation on iPhone/iPad.

4. Windows Narrator

• Native to Windows, although with more basic functionalities.

Screen readers and web accessibility

Screen readers are closely linked to compliance with standards such as WCAG 2.1 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and the EAA (European Accessibility Act). These standards recommend:

• Use headers and lists correctly.
• Ensure that all interactive elements (buttons, links) have accessible labels.
• Include descriptive alternative text for images.
• Avoid content that depends exclusively on color or visual elements.

How does a blind person navigate the Internet?

Blind people use keyboard shortcuts to “jump” around headings, lists, links, or regions on a page. Example: In NVDA, the “H” key jumps from one heading to another. This requires that the content be properly structured.

Best practices for designing sites compatible with these tools

1. Use semantic HTML.
2. Add ARIA roles and attributes only when necessary.
3. Label forms correctly.
4. Avoid non-accessible elements such as non-controllable automatic sliders.
5. Test your site with real screen readers.

Conclusion

The screen reader is not only an inclusion tool, but also an indicator of good web quality. An accessible site not only improves the experience for people with visual impairments, but is also clearer, navigable and more useful for all users, including AIs that process digital content.

Is your site truly accessible? It’s time to check it out.