Post #1926496
2026-04-27 09:31 UTC
I remember an article claiming that maybe ~15% of users used text selection as a reading aid in some tests (on desktop computers, might be lower on mobile). Can’t find a source right now, and would be happy for any link if someone knows.
I know that I do this, and have heard anecdotal evidence from others that they do it as well. I have ADHD and can easily lose track of what I’m reading, I can end up re-reading the same paragraph a few times, etc.
I also wonder if some people with dyslexia use text selection/highlighting as a digital equivalent of physical tools (reading rulers and color overlays).
Replies (3)
-
@biou@mas.to 2026-04-27 09:35
@fvsch and maybe avoid implementing overlays hijacking selection to show a menu proposing to read the text out loud? This feature exists already in most browsers.
-
@jenesuispersonne@piaille.fr 2026-04-27 09:52
@fvsch I don't get your source, but I can confirm it's what I do constantly.
-
@NatalyaD@disabled.social 2026-04-27 16:17
@fvsch I know a lot of people with reading difficulties will use selection to act like a finger or ruler to help them track the line. That text selection is truly revolting. I don't understand people adding so much trash to text in any mode. We're not in the 90s where Word Art is rad and cool and new... (except we are, kinda, where management and marketing are involved)