How to enable and use Chrome reading mode

Chrome’s reading mode is known for providing a distraction-free environment that removes clutter and distractions from web pages and articles. Previously, it was limited to web pages and articles. However, you can enjoy it with PDF files as it has finally been rolled out on Chrome’s Canary (Experimental Space) Channel. This means that users can now view PDF files in Chrome without distractions and with a white background.

Also, Chrome’s reading mode for PDFs has some adjustment functions, such as changing the font size, line spacing, text colour, and, most importantly, a listen button that allows Chrome to read the PDF file for you. Some of you might wonder why we are emphasising this, even though it is just a minor feature enhancement and only available on Canary. It improves focus, reduces eye strain, and offers many benefits. So, let us see how to use this feature.

Mastering PDFs: Unleashing Google Chrome’s Reading Mode

Since this is an extension of the previously added reading mode feature that helps users focus on content rather than elements, I am sure after having a quick overview of Chrome’s reading mode for PDFs, you want to know how to use this feature. You may also wonder which devices are compatible with this feature and how to enable it if you have such a device. Although this feature is only available on the Canary channel, we have tried to figure out how to use it.

After considering different facts and developers’ views on it, we have found that Chrome’s reading mode for PDFs is compatible with all desktop and mobile devices that support Chrome. However, this new feature will not work on password-protected PDFs or files containing interactive elements like forms or fields. Meanwhile, if you want to use this feature on your phone and desktop, update Chrome to version 95 and version 90 or higher, respectively. Now, let us discuss how to enable it.

Enable Chrome Reading Mode

• On your device, open Chrome.
• Then, type chrome://flags in the address bar.
• Now press Enter to go to the Chrome Flags page.
• Under there, type “reading mode” in the search bar.
• Click the drop-down menu next to the Reading Mode flag and select “Enabled”.
• Lastly, click the “Relaunch” button at the bottom of the page, and you are done.

Steps to Use Chrome Reading Mode

1. Launch Chrome and open the PDF file that you want.
2. Then click on the Reading Mode button appearing in the top toolbar.
3. Now, you can adjust the font size, line spacing, and text colour using the controls at the top.
4. Afterwards, click the listen button to have Chrome read the PDF file.
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5. That is it! This is how you can use Chrome’s reading mode.

Once you have fulfilled your need for using Chrome’s reading mode for PDF, you can exit the same through the “Exit reading mode” button in the top toolbar. After getting used to this feature, you can avail of plenty of benefits, from improved focus and comprehension to reduced eye strain, accessibility, improved readability on small screens, and enhanced performance.

Clever Strategies for Maximising Your PDF Reading Experience in Chrome

Chrome’s PDF reading mode provides many improvements to the user experience thanks to its essential features. As you will notice, this feature gives you access to listening, translating, printing, saving, annotating, and numerous other functions. However, people usually ignore them and focus solely on reading PDFs without distractions. This is a great thought, but you should look for tips to enhance your experience further.

• Adjust font size, colour, and line spacing.
• Use the listening feature.
• Use the Zoom feature and bookmark essential notes.
• Give priority to annotations for better understanding.
• Find the required details using the Find feature.

You can also use a few keyboard shortcuts that help you onboard quickly. For example, to scroll down, press the Spacebar; to scroll up, press Shift + Spacebar; to go to the next page, press the right arrow, and so on. We have a few alternatives to Chrome’s reading mode, such as Mozilla Firefox reader view and Microsoft Edge immersive reader, but each has its benefits and downsides. Among them, Chrome seems to be the best because of its accessibility, integration with Translate, and, above all, because it is customisable.

Collectively, Chrome’s Reading Mode for PDFs offers a seamless and distraction-free reading experience. This feature allows users to enjoy improved readability, simplified navigation, and reduced clutter. It is a powerful tool for anyone who frequently reads PDF documents online. Do not hesitate to use this feature today and unlock a more efficient and enjoyable way to consume PDF content.

Frequently asked questions