Turn on TalkBack

The TalkBack screen reader gives you spoken feedback and notifications.

Option 1: Press both volume keys

1. Press both volume keys for 3 seconds.
2. If TalkBack doesn't turn on right away, press both volume keys again for 3 seconds.

Notes:

• The first time you try the shortcut, you might need to confirm setup in a confirmation dialog. 
• If the steps above don't work, follow the steps to turn on the accessibility shortcut in your device settings.

Option 2: Turn on TalkBack in your device Settings

The steps below require sighted assistance.

1. Open your device's Settings app .
2. Open Accessibility, then TalkBack.
3. Turn on TalkBack.
   • If you're using Android 4.0 or earlier, refer to the steps for earlier Android versions below. 
4. In the confirmation dialog, tap OK.

Option 3: Set up a new Android device with TalkBack

You can turn on TalkBack when you turn on your Android device for the very first time. 

If possible, keep headphones handy so that you can plug them in when it's time to enter any passwords, such as your Wi-Fi password. By default, key echo is only turned on if headphones are plugged into your device. You can change this setting later in your Android device settings.

• Android 4.1 and above: Press and hold two fingers on the setup screen. When your device recognizes this gesture, TalkBack is enabled and a tutorial begins.
• Android 4.0: Use your finger to draw a closed rectangle on the setup screen. When your device recognizes this gesture, you'll hear a beep.