NVDA 2026.2

Michael Curran ❘ Open Source ❘
Windows

Latest Version
2026.2

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NVDA: A free and open-source screen reader for Windows

Human-built. AI-enhanced.

Peter Salakani

10/20/2026

NVDA is a highly customizable screen reader software that provides access to computers for users with visual impairments.

NVDA Screen Reader Overview

NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) is a free, open source screen reader that gives blind and vision-impaired users access to information shown on their computer screens. Michael Curran began developing it in April 2006, and James Teh joined him to build the software. Both men are blind, and they later founded NV Access, a not-for-profit organisation, to support the project. NVDA was designed for computers running Windows.

NVDA offers several core capabilities:

A choice of speech synthesizers
Braille display support, which lets users read information through touch
Compatibility with Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and many other widely used programs
The ability to read on-screen text in multiple languages
Adjustable speech settings, including speed and volume

NVDA has been translated into more than 55 languages by volunteers and is used in more than 175 countries. The software has received several awards, including the ICCHP Roland Wagner Award in 2018. Because its source code is publicly available, translators and developers worldwide can contribute to its ongoing development.

For blind and vision-impaired users who rely on a computer, NVDA provides access to the content on their screens. This access supports participation in education, employment, online banking, shopping, news, and other everyday activities.

NVDA is built for Windows. As with any screen reader, some websites and software programs may not be fully accessible because of design choices or other technical factors.

Overview

NVDA is a Open Source software in the category Desktop developed by Michael Curran.

The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked NVDA for updates 126 times during the last month.

The latest version of NVDA is 2026.2, released on 10/20/2026. It was initially added to our database on 02/09/2008.

NVDA runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

NVDA has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Free and open-source screen reader software
Supports a wide range of languages and voices
Compatible with popular applications and web browsers
Regular updates and active developer community
Customizable settings for individual user needs

Cons

May have compatibility issues with certain programs or websites
Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with screen reader software
Technical support mainly through user forums and online resources

FAQ

Q: What is NVDA?

A: NVDA (Non-Visual Desktop Access) is a free screen reader for Microsoft Windows computers.

Q: Who created NVDA?

A: NVDA was created by Michael Curran and James Teh.

Q: What languages does NVDA support?

A: NVDA is available in over 50 languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Chinese.

Q: What types of documents can NVDA read?

A: NVDA can read a variety of document types including web pages, PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and more.

Q: Is NVDA compatible with all versions of Windows?

A: NVDA is compatible with most versions of Windows from XP through Windows 10.

Q: Does NVDA have any keyboard shortcuts?

A: Yes, NVDA has a variety of keyboard shortcuts that allow users to navigate and interact with their computer without a mouse.

Q: Does NVDA have any limitations?

A: While NVDA is a powerful screen reader, it does have some limitations when it comes to accessing certain types of content, such as complex tables or images without alternative text.

Q: Is NVDA only for blind people?

A: NVDA is primarily designed for blind and visually impaired individuals, but it can also be helpful to individuals with other disabilities that make it difficult to use a mouse or keyboard.

Q: Can I customize NVDA?

A: Yes, NVDA offers a variety of customization options, including the ability to change the voice used by the screen reader, adjust reading speed, and more.

Q: Is NVDA really free?

A: Yes, NVDA is completely free to download and use. It is open source software, which means that anyone can access the code and make modifications or contributions.

Peter Salakani

I'm Peter, a software reviews author at UpdateStar and content specialist with a keen focus on usability and performance. With a background in both software development and content creation, I bring a unique perspective to evaluating and discussing general software topics. When I'm not reviewing software, I enjoy staying updated on the latest tech trends, experimenting with new applications, and finding innovative solutions to everyday tech challenges.

Latest Reviews by Peter Salakani

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126 users of UpdateStar had NVDA installed last month.

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