Microsoft Edge issue with Read Aloud function and Maths

Question

I use the text to speech function in Edge to help me with accessibility in my studies. However, it struggles to read from math textbooks. It doesn't seem to recognize the equations or variables. I attached an image from an Openstax textbook as an example. The highlights represent what is not being spoken. Is there a way to toggle a setting or a different voice option that will make it read math textbooks correctly? I am entering a STEM program and would really like to continue using Edge's wonderful read aloud feature without purchasing an additional software. However, if it is simply a software limitation, please let me know and I will seek additional solutions outside of Edge.

I am using

Microsoft EdgeVersion 128.0.2739.54 (Official build) (64-bit)

on a PC with

Windows 10 Home

Version 22H2

Installed on ‎10/‎1/‎2020

OS build 19045.4780

Experience Windows Feature Experience Pack 1000.19060.1000.0

PC is current on updates.

I also have access to a Microsoft Surface that runs Windows 11, if the OS has anything to do with the issue.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Answer 1

Dear KrisW_369,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Community.

I understand the importance of having a reliable text-to-speech feature for academic research, especially for reading mathematics content aloud. We've reviewed your concern regarding the inability of Microsoft Edge's Read Aloud feature to properly read equations and variables from math textbooks.

After thorough testing, it appears that the Read Aloud feature in Microsoft Edge does indeed have limitations when it comes to reading function expressions and mathematical content correctly. Unfortunately, this is a known limitation of the feature itself, and there are no settings or speech options within Edge that can currently rectify this issue.

We highly value user feedback, and it plays a crucial role in improving our products. I recommend submitting feedback about this functionality directly to the Microsoft Edge development team. Here’s how you can do it:

• Launch Microsoft Edge.
• Click on the three dots (...) in the upper-right corner of the browser.
• Select Help and feedback > Send feedback.
• Provide a detailed description of the issue, including examples and any relevant images.
• Click Send to submit your feedback.

Given the current limitations, you may need to explore alternative software solutions for your STEM project. Here are a few options that are known for better handling mathematical content:

1. EquatIO: An intuitive tool designed for STEM content, capable of reading equations aloud.
2. NaturalReader: Another text-to-speech software with better support for mathematical expressions.

While Microsoft Edge's Read Aloud feature currently falls short in reading mathematical content correctly, providing feedback can help drive improvements. In the meantime, exploring other specialized software options might be beneficial for your STEM project. I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Should you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out.

Best Regards,

Martin | Microsoft Community Support Specialist