Amazon continues to expand accessibility features for Kindle devices and the Kindle app, aiming to support readers with a variety of disabilities. Since the introduction of VoiceView in 2016, which provides screen reader support for blind and low-vision users in multiple languages, Amazon has added several new tools designed to assist individuals with cognitive or mobility disabilities and those facing challenges with comprehension and readability.
One of the latest additions is Assistive Reader, a feature that offers text-to-speech audio and synchronized highlighting on the Kindle app for iOS, Android, Fire tablets, and current generation Kindle devices. This tool helps make books more accessible for people with dyslexia or other disabilities by allowing them to listen as they read along. According to Amazon, “With this read-aloud feature, readers can focus on listening and comprehension, reducing the stress of pronunciation and making reading more approachable.”
The Reading Ruler is another feature available on the Kindle app for iOS, Android, and Fire tablets. It acts as a customizable guide over text to help users stay focused on one line at a time. Amazon states that it is especially useful “for readers who have difficulty staying focused, reading for extended periods, or tracking text line by line,” helping reduce distractions from surrounding words.
Vocabulary support is also integrated into Kindle’s offerings. The Word Wise tool provides simple definitions and synonyms directly within select English language books. Users can also access dictionary lookups and translation features across devices. The company notes that “language learners, individuals with reading disabilities, or anyone needing additional support with word meanings or pronunciation can benefit from tools that are designed to support vocabulary development.” Additionally, pronunciations can be heard aloud through the app.
Kindle allows significant customization of font sizes and types—including OpenDyslexic font—and layout options such as margins, spacing, alignment, page color (including dark mode), and custom themes. Current generation devices also let users adjust interface text size for easier navigation.
For those with mobility or dexterity challenges, navigation options include swiping or tapping to flip pages, continuous scrolling in the app, adjustable orientation between portrait and landscape modes, volume button page turning on Android devices and Fire tablets, as well as switch access via compatible Bluetooth devices.
Amazon’s Kindle Store now includes over 12 million eBooks accessible to screen readers and refreshable braille displays. Accessibility details are listed on book detail pages alongside an icon indicating compatibility. Amazon encourages users to explore Accessible Amazon Originals for recommended titles.
“We’re constantly enhancing the reading experience for users who rely on assistive technology,” Amazon said in its announcement.
