Outlook Tips & Features: Read Aloud – Tech Tip For November 15, 2023

In today’s busy work environment, we’re always looking for ways to be more efficient and productive, and there are many tools we can use in innovative ways to accomplish those goals. A prime example is Microsoft Outlook’s Read Aloud feature, a hidden gem that can revolutionize email management.

Outlook’s Read Aloud feature uses your device’s Text-to-Speech (TTS) capabilities to read your emails out loud. This feature can aid visually impaired users, assist people who are better at auditory comprehension, or simply provide a hands-free email experience when multitasking.

Activating and Using Read Aloud

Turning on Read Aloud is slightly different depending on whether you use Outlook for desktop (in Windows) or the web application. If not already defaulted, you can activate this great Outlook accessibility feature via Outlook Options:

Outlook for Desktop (Windows):

• Select the ‘File’ tab in top-left corner
• Choose ‘Options’ at bottom-left menu
• Select ‘Accessibility’ option at left in pop-up window
• Under Application display options, check box next to, ‘Show Read Aloud’ (if not already selected)

Outlook for Web:

• Select ‘View’ tab above ribbon
• Select ‘Immersive Reader’ button
• Click ‘Play’ button to prompt ‘Read Aloud’

You will notice that Outlook for web and the Desktop application both have Read Aloud and Immersive Reader turned on for access by default. When in use, controls will appear that allow you to play, pause, and navigate between paragraphs. In the Windows app, these controls are located in the upper right, while on the website, the Read Aloud feature is bundled and controlled within the Immersive Reader.

Customizing Your Experience

You can change Read Aloud’s reading speed and voice to suit your preferences.

For the Outlook for desktop app (in Windows), click the gear icon to access these settings. Look for ‘Voice Settings’ in Immersive Reader if you’re using the web version.

Keyboard Shortcuts

For those who prefer keyboard commands, Outlook’s Read Aloud feature supports a wide range of shortcuts for use in the desktop app (for Windows). Double-click to open a selected email in a new window to try the following shortcuts:

• CTRL+ALT+Space: Start Read Aloud
• CTRL+Space: Play/Pause
• CTRL+Left Arrow: Go back to the previous paragraph
• CTRL+Right Arrow: Skip to the next paragraph
• ALT+Left Arrow: Slow down
• ALT+Right Arrow: Speed up

TechWise Group Can Help You Leverage the Power of Your Microsoft Products

The Read Aloud feature in Microsoft Outlook is a powerful tool that can make email management more efficient and accessible. We encourage you to explore this feature and experience its benefits.

Reach out to us today to discover how you can effectively utilize other Microsoft tools to optimize your daily operations and enhance your productivity.

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