In brief
Developers can add Immersive Reader to applications through an API without machine learning expertise. Its reading aloud, translation, and visual aids help users of different ages and abilities understand text. At the time of the article, the preview was free and supported more than 60 languages.
Microsoft has launched a preview of Immersive Reader, making it easier for developers to add immersive reading features to applications and help readers understand text in multiple ways. Immersive Reader is a new service in the language category of Azure Cognitive Services that developers can embed in applications through an API. It can read text aloud to users, translate text into speech in another language, and highlight lines that need focused attention to improve reading and comprehension.
Although reading is one of the ways people commonly acquire knowledge, people with dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or visual impairments may find it difficult to learn through reading. Non-native speakers may also encounter considerable barriers when reading text. Microsoft launched Immersive Reader to help these people overcome such difficulties through technology.
Developers do not need machine learning expertise to use Immersive Reader; they can simply call an API to access this artificial intelligence service. Its main features include reading text aloud and translation, turning the knowledge contained in written text in books into speech that users can absorb. It can also use visual effects to help users concentrate.
For users, Immersive Reader provides a comprehensive enhanced reading experience for people of all ages and abilities. Users can listen to text within applications, translate text into speech in a specified language, and highlight particular lines on the screen to focus their reading. It can also visually depict words that users select, supporting multisensory learning.
Microsoft already offered immersive reading features in 18 of its applications, including Learning Tools, Word, and Outlook. It is now making these features available externally as a cloud service, supporting more than 60 languages worldwide. The Immersive Reader preview is currently available free of charge, with pricing to be announced for the full release.
Original article URL: https://bit.ly/2FAIMVp