A screen reader is a type of software that enables those who are blind or have low vision or a visual disability to interact with applications, such as web browsers, on both desktop and mobile platforms.
Screen readers perform two primary functions. First, they provide access to the on-screen display through voice output, a refreshable Braille display, or through magnification. Second, they replace the mouse and make interaction with an app or website more efficient using a robust set of keyboard commands, or touch gestures if used on a mobile device with a touch screen. Desktop screen readers read left to right, top to bottom. Some websites contain elements that screen readers can’t properly interpret.
Accessibility support
Xfinity customers with a disability who use accessibility services, including closed captioning (CC), audio description and Voice Guidance, have access to a specially trained and dedicated customer support team through Comcast's Accessibility Support Center for Customers with Disabilities.
For questions related to Xfinity Mobile's accessibility features, send an email to accessibility@comcast.com or call us at 1-888-936-4968.
Screen reader compatibility with Xfinity products
Xfinity products are tested with the latest versions of JAWS and NVDA on Windows and VoiceOver on Mac. For mobile apps, we recommend you use the latest versions of VoiceOver on iOS devices and TalkBack on Android devices.
For the best results with all of our products, we recommend you have the latest version of your preferred screen reader installed at all times.
Job Access With Speech (JAWS)
A licensed screen reader for Windows, allowing users who are blind or have low vision or a visual disability to change output to either text-to-speech or Braille displays. It includes a mode specifically designed for use with web browsers. Support for JAWS is available at: freedomscientific.com/support.asp.
NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA)
A free, open source screen reader for Windows. NVDA provides support for popular applications including web browsers, email clients, internet chat software, music players, and office programs, such as Microsoft Word and Excel. Support for NVDA is available at nvaccess.org/get-help.
VoiceOver
The screen reader that comes preinstalled on iOS devices and Mac computers. Support for VoiceOver is available at support.apple.com/guide/voiceover/welcome/mac.
TalkBack
The screen reader included with Android Devices. Support for TalkBack is available at support.google.com/accessibility/android.