NVDA Addons is a site that lists available information about and download links for add-ons for NVDA, the free Windows screen reader.
What is an add-on?
An add-on, also called a plug-in, is software designed to enhance another programme. One example is the Webvisum add-on to Firefox, used by many blind users to solve visual CAPTCHAs.
NVDA is a free screen reader for Windows, developed by two Australian programmers who felt there ought to be options other than Narrator, the built-in but very limited Windows screen reader, and expensive commercial screen readers aimed at professional users.
James Teh wrote the first NVDA add-on and made it available as a separate download in 2011. Although James is one of the creators of NVDA, anyone with programming skills can create an add-on and put it on a website or make it available through a file sharing site like Dropbox. The problem is in letting people know when an add-on is available.
Where can I get NVDA add-ons?
There is some information about the OCR add-on and others on the NVDA website.
The NVDA addons website has brief information on over 35 add-ons, including improvements for popular programmes like Winamp. It also gives a link to a page where you can find out about creating your own add-ons. The site is run by someone called Storm Dragon, who also works on the Vinux Project.
The site is very easy to navigate, because all it contains is headings, text and links.
Got a suggestion?
We want to hear from you, our users. Which apps and websites should we be writing about on the TechKnowMore blog? Is there an app you can no longer live without? What website is at the top of your favourites list? Drop us an email on DigitalAccess@rnib.org.uk to let us know, and your favourite service could be featured in the very near future!