Here's How to Listen to PDFs

If you’ve ever wondered, "Can PDF files be read aloud?"—the answer is yes! Whether you're multitasking, have a visual impairment, or simply prefer listening over reading, there are several tools and apps that can convert text in a PDF into speech. Here's how it works and how to get started.

Can PDFs Be Read Aloud?

Yes, most PDFs can be read aloud using text-to-speech (TTS) technology. This feature works best with accessible PDFs—files that contain selectable, digital text rather than scanned images.

What Is Text-to-Speech (TTS)?

TTS converts written text into spoken words using software or built-in device features. It’s widely used for reading documents, websites, and books aloud.

Ways to Make PDFs Read Aloud

1. Built-In Accessibility Features

  • Android: Use the "Select to Speak" or "TalkBack" feature in Accessibility settings.

  • iPhone/iPad: Enable "Speak Selection" or "Speak Screen" under Accessibility > Spoken Content.

  • Mac: Right-click text and choose "Speech > Start Speaking."

  • Windows: Use "Narrator" or third-party apps like Natural Reader.

2. PDF Readers with TTS Support

  • Adobe Acrobat Reader: Offers Read Aloud mode under View > Read Out Loud.

  • Foxit PDF Reader: Includes a TTS engine in mobile and desktop versions.

  • Voice Dream Reader (iOS): Premium app that supports PDFs and EPUBs.

3. Online TTS Tools

  • Upload your PDF to platforms like Natural Readers, TTSReader, or Speech Central to hear it read aloud directly in your browser.

Using PortableDocs for Smarter PDF Listening

At PortableDocs, we go beyond basic TTS by offering:

  • AI-powered summaries, so you don’t need to listen to the whole document

  • Question-answering features, allowing you to ask your PDF for specific info

  • Compatibility with accessible PDFs, perfect for pairing with screen readers

Bonus: Free PDF Tools from PortableDocs

Our platform includes:

  • PDF to audio conversion

  • Summarize PDFs into quick-read formats

  • Convert scanned images to readable text with OCR

Conclusion

So, can PDF files be read aloud? Absolutely. Whether through your phone’s built-in settings, a dedicated app, or online tools, TTS makes PDFs more accessible and convenient. For a smarter experience that combines listening, summarizing, and interaction, try PortableDocs—where AI meets accessibility.