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How to use “Open Dyslexic” Kindle Font
“Open Dyslexic” Font
Did you know the Kindle has a ‘Dyslexic Font’ on it?
Kindle Makes Reading a Little Easier for People With Dyslexia by designing an “Open Dyslexic” font.
This has already helped thousands of people with dyslexia, and some other people who do not have dyslexia have found it easier to read with it turned on.
Many people who contact me are unaware that Kindle has this “Open Dyslexic” font and are relieved they can put it on their device in a few minutes. It is helping many people to read more accessible, quicker and become less tired.
Indeed, the “Open Dyslexic” font was rolled out a few years ago, so to remind anyone who had one for Christmas, you can always add the font to your lovely new Kindle.
Many people with dyslexia find it easier to read with this font.
However, it should be noted that this does not apply to everyone, and some people with dyslexia, find it much worse
and more confusing. You will have to try it and see what you think. I have put the links at the bottom of this article. (It’s a sneaky way to make you read it all!)
Anything that makes it easier for people with dyslexia to read has got to be a good thing. I am pleased that these companies are trying to help people with learning difficulties.
How to Download the “Open Dyslexic” Kindle Font to your Kindle
As you probably know, a font is simply a different style of the typed word. For instance, if you look at a newspaper, the size and type of words you read differ from those shown in a magazine, and we are simply going to change the font on your Kindle to a different one.
- If you have got your Kindle, we can start.
- Now, swipe left to open or ‘wake up’ the Kindle.
- You will see here that the font currently being used is Bookerly.
- To change this font, press the top of the screen.
- Press the two ‘Aa’ on the top of the page.
- Next to the word ‘themes’, you will see ‘font’; press on it.
- Next to the font family, you will see the two Aa’s again; click on the small arrow next to Bookerly.
- On the list, look for “Open Dyslexic”. Please tap on the blank circle next to it.
- Now, press the top of the page again.
- You will see how my book’s words (font) have changed.
The “Open Dyslexic” font can be found on most of the newer versions of Kindle Paperwhites. You can also find it on all of Amazon’s e-readers, except versions one and two. This will also work on the basic Kindle, the Voyage, and the two paperwhites.
If you can’t find the font on your Kindle, get your update here: https://opendyslexic.org/
Q. I find it easier to learn if I can see a video of things. Can you show me how I download the Open Dyslexic font?
A. I have recorded a YouTube video, which you may find helpful. How to Download the Dyslexia Font.
There is an excellent article on the Open Dyslexic Font by Alex Clark-McGlenn, who is dyslexic and has found it helpful.
11th March 2023
I’m buying a kindle to help my granddaughter with her dyslexia. Is it a certain kindle I shall need to purchase? Thanks so much.
Major up-date by Amazon for e-readers
Dyslexia font – Amazon rolled out a major software update a while ago for all its e-readers. And apparently, this works on all current models, including the basic Kindle, the Voyage, and the latter two paperwhites.
Update available here https://the-digital-reader.com/2016/02/02/kindle-update-v5-7-2-adds-open-dyslexic-font-new-home-page-screenshots/
Hi,
Can the latest Kindle’s released in 2022, such as Kindle, Kindle Paper White or Kindle Oasis use the Dyslexia font?
Kind regards,
Alex
Hi, I am trying to check this out for you. Will come back when I have an answer.
Kind regards
Maria
Hi Maria,
I would also like a reply after you check it out. My sixth grade grandson was just diagnosed and if a kindle is a good idea, then I will get it as his birthday is coming up.
Thanks so Much.
Gay Meehan
I understand that the Kindle open dyxlexia font was dropped in August 2022 after a Kindle update. Has it been added again and will it drop when another update comes along? Also, Does the kids Kindle have it?
Thanks you
Hi, sorry for the delay. I understand the Kindle Open Dyslexic Font was accidentally dropped when they had an update in 2022. However, Amazon only found out when people started complaining, and I understand from their reply that they still want to support it.
Regarding the Children’s Kindles, you cannot download the Dyslexic Font onto the first two models. However, I think your Kindle would have to be quite old if that were the case. I have the model numbers somewhere, I will try to look them out, but I can’t guarantee anything.
Thank you for your enquiry.
Kind Regards
Maria
Totally agree with give it a try. I’m one of those that find the font unhelpful, so removed it. Much prefer a san-serif font for reading.
Totally agree with you. It is quite surprising how different things/products help people with dyslexia, isn’t it? I really found the font very confusing, different size letters and then it seemed as a ‘lot of ink’ was on some letters. However, in fairness, some people do find it helpful and that’s all that matters.
Thank you for your comments.
Why isn’t there a colour option to help people with dyslexia. One of the biggest problems I find is the black writing on white background. It puts me off reading books and I though a kindle would help. But it’s still black on white
I agree! Kindle needs a Colored Overlay option.