TalkBack

TalkBack is Google's screen reader for Android, built into every Android device. Essential for testing mobile web accessibility and Android app accessibility for users who are blind or have low vision.

›

Tool Overview

Attribute Details
Developer Google
Tool Type Mobile screen reader (assistive technology)
Platform Android 4.1+ (all Android devices)
Pricing Free (built into Android)
Market Share Primary screen reader for Android (72% mobile market share)
Website support.google.com/accessibility
›

What is TalkBack?

TalkBack is Android's built-in screen reader that provides spoken feedback so users can navigate their device without seeing the screen. It reads aloud text, buttons, icons, and other elements, and allows users to interact with their device through gestures.

With Android holding approximately 72% of the global mobile market share, TalkBack is how the majority of smartphone-using blind and visually impaired people interact with mobile devices. Testing with TalkBack is essential for ensuring your mobile websites and Android apps are accessible.

TalkBack is part of the Android Accessibility Suite, which also includes features like Switch Access for users with motor impairments and Select to Speak for users who want specific content read aloud.

›

Key Features & Capabilities

Core Functionality

  • Text-to-speech for all on-screen elements
  • Gesture-based navigation and interaction
  • Braille display support via BrailleBack
  • Sound and vibration feedback

Web Browsing Features

  • Navigation by Element: Swipe through headings, links, form controls
  • Reading Controls: Read continuously or element by element
  • Explore by Touch: Touch screen to hear what's under your finger
  • Quick Navigation: Jump to specific element types
  • Accessibility Menu: Quick access to common actions

Browser Support

  • Chrome: Best TalkBack support (recommended)
  • Firefox: Good support
  • Samsung Internet: Good support on Samsung devices
›

Essential Gestures

Gesture Action
Swipe right Move to next item
Swipe left Move to previous item
Double-tap Activate (click) the selected item
Swipe down then right Open local context menu
Swipe up then right Open global context menu
Swipe up then down Change reading controls (navigation mode)
Two-finger swipe up Scroll down
Two-finger swipe down Scroll up
Three-finger tap Open TalkBack menu
Explore by touch Drag finger to hear items under it

Tip: Use the "Reading Controls" (swipe up then down) to change what left/right swipes navigate by: characters, words, lines, headings, links, etc.

›

How to Enable TalkBack

Through Settings

  1. Open Settings on your Android device
  2. Tap Accessibility
  3. Tap TalkBack
  4. Toggle Use TalkBack to On
  5. Tap OK to confirm

Quick Access Shortcut

  1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Accessibility shortcuts
  2. Enable the shortcut for TalkBack
  3. Use the shortcut to quickly toggle TalkBack:
    • Press and hold both volume buttons for 3 seconds, or
    • Triple-tap the screen (if enabled)

Recommended Settings for Testing

  • Speech rate: Slow down for easier testing
  • Verbosity: Set to "High" for detailed announcements
  • Developer settings: Enable accessibility scanner
  • Sound and vibration: Enable for additional feedback
›

What to Test With TalkBack

Test Area What to Check
Touch Targets Are buttons/links at least 48x48dp and easy to tap?
Labels Do all interactive elements have meaningful labels?
Focus Order Is the navigation order logical when swiping?
Images Do images have appropriate content descriptions?
Forms Are labels announced with form fields? Are errors communicated?
Dynamic Content Are updates announced? Is focus managed correctly?
Gestures Are custom gestures accessible alternatives provided?
›

Quick Facts

Best For: Testing mobile web and Android app accessibility

Skill Level: Intermediate (gesture learning required)

Time to Learn: 1-2 hours for basic testing

Output: Audio feedback, haptic feedback

›

Pricing

100% Free

  • Built into all Android devices
  • No installation required
  • Included in Android Accessibility Suite
  • Regular updates via Google Play
›

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Free on all Android devices
  • Essential for real-world testing
  • Represents majority of mobile users
  • Regular Google updates
  • Works with Chrome for web testing

Limitations

  • Gesture learning curve
  • Android only
  • Behavior varies by device/version
  • No desktop equivalent
›

Related Tools

View all testing tools ›
›

Best Practices for Testing with TalkBack

Before Testing

  1. Practice Gestures: Learn the basics before testing
  2. Set Up Shortcut: Enable volume button shortcut for quick toggle
  3. Use Chrome: Best compatibility with TalkBack
  4. Close Other Apps: Reduce distractions during testing

During Testing

  1. Test All Interactions: Forms, buttons, links, menus
  2. Check Touch Targets: Ensure 48dp minimum size
  3. Verify Announcements: Are labels meaningful?
  4. Test Orientation: Does it work in both portrait and landscape?

Android Accessibility Scanner

Use Google's Accessibility Scanner app alongside TalkBack testing. It automatically scans apps and provides suggestions for improving accessibility, including touch target sizes, labels, and contrast issues.

Need Help with Mobile Accessibility Testing?

Our experts can help you develop comprehensive mobile accessibility testing strategies.

Contact Us All Testing Tools