Convert Text to Speech in JavaScript

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology allows you to convert written text into spoken words. With JavaScript, you can easily implement a TTS feature on your website or web application.

Using the SpeechSynthesis API

JavaScript provides the SpeechSynthesis API, which allows you to convert text to speech. The API is supported by most modern web browsers, making it a versatile solution for adding TTS capabilities to your project.

Example:

        
        let message = new SpeechSynthesisUtterance('Hello, world!');
        window.speechSynthesis.speak(message);
        
    

Customizing Speech Output

With the SpeechSynthesisUtterance object, you can customize various aspects of the speech output, such as voice, rate, pitch, and volume. This allows you to create a more personalized and natural-sounding TTS experience for your users.

Example:

        
        let message = new SpeechSynthesisUtterance('Hello, world!');
        message.voice = speechSynthesis.getVoices().find(voice => voice.name === 'Google US English');
        message.rate = 1; // Speech rate (0.1 - 10)
        message.pitch = 1; // Speech pitch (0 - 2)
        message.volume = 1; // Speech volume (0 - 1)
        window.speechSynthesis.speak(message);
        
    

Adding User-Triggered TTS

You can also add a user-triggered TTS feature to your website, allowing users to convert specific text to speech by clicking a button or performing another action. This can be a useful accessibility feature for users with visual impairments.

Example:

        
        const button = document.getElementById('speakButton');
        const textToSpeak = document.getElementById('textToSpeak');

        button.addEventListener('click', () => {
            let message = new SpeechSynthesisUtterance(textToSpeak.value);
            window.speechSynthesis.speak(message);
        });
        
    

Conclusion

Implementing text-to-speech functionality in JavaScript is a powerful way to enhance the user experience on your website or web application. Whether used for accessibility purposes or simply as a fun feature, TTS can make your content more engaging and inclusive.