ZoomText
ZoomText is assistive software which has integrated magnification and screen-reading functions, primarily designed to support users with low vision conditions. It’s produced by Freedom Scientific.
- ZoomText Magnifier provides the complete set of screen magnification tools for enlarging and enhancing everything on your computer screen.
- ZoomText Magnifier/Reader provides all of the features of ZoomText Magnifier, plus a user-friendly set of screen and document reading tools tailored for low vision users.
Key features
- Enlarge and enhance everything on your computer screen.
- ZoomText’s AppReader automatically reads documents, web pages and email.
- ZoomText’s DocReader reads documents in a special environment where text is reformatted for easier viewing.
- ZoomText Recorder allows you to turn text from documents, web pages, email, etc. into audio recordings that you can transfer onto your mobile device.
Access instructions
- ZoomText is installed on the designated accessible PCs in our computer labs.
- If you wish to use the screen reading feature, you’ll need to bring your own headphones, with a standard 3.5mm jack.
- If you’re a member of staff and require ZoomText for your managed device, please contact itsupport@york.ac.uk to make your request.
Available to students and staff (restrictions apply)
This tool is available on designated accessible PCs in our computer labs. Authorised users can install this service on University-managed devices.
App-based
Compatible with Windows and Mac.
Funded by the University
There isn’t a cost to you for standard use.
Access instructions
- ZoomText is installed on the designated accessible PCs in our computer labs.
- If you wish to use the screen reading feature, you’ll need to bring your own headphones, with a standard 3.5mm jack.
- If you’re a member of staff and require ZoomText for your managed device, please contact itsupport@york.ac.uk to make your request.
Related tools
Guides and help
How-to guides and set up
- ZoomText user guides (freedomscientific.com)
- ZoomText keyboard user guides in large print (freedomscientific.com)
- More software and apps and how to obtain them
Training and best practice
- ZoomText provides user guides in both Word and PDF format in a variety of languages, which can be downloaded from ZoomText User Guides (freedomscientific.com).
- Training to support ZoomText users (freedomscientific.com). The support includes a getting started guide, FAQs, user tips and instructional videos.
Accessibility
- View accessibility reports for ZoomText (freedomscientific.com)
Contact for support
If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.
Service commitments
The following policies apply to all IT services provided by the University.
Availability
- This is a live service, available 24/7.
Support
- This service is managed by a third party.
- They are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults. We provide advice and support for local issues during our opening hours.
- Support is available via Freedom Scientific (freedomscientific.com).
Standards
- Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers, and we monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.
We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.
Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024