Text & Keyboard
A full keyboard communication mode for users who can spell, type, or are transitioning toward literacy-based AAC. Text & Keyboard provides a complete on-screen keyboard with word prediction, phrase history, and high-quality speech output — turning typed text into spoken words instantly.
What is Text & Keyboard Mode?
A text-based communication mode that lets users type messages using a full on-screen keyboard and have them spoken aloud. Ideal for literate users, those developing literacy skills, or anyone who prefers typing over selecting symbols.
Type and Speak
Users type their message on a full QWERTY keyboard and tap speak to have it read aloud with high-quality text-to-speech. The message appears on the sentence bar and can be edited before speaking.
This gives literate communicators complete freedom of expression — any word, any sentence, any thought can be spoken, with no vocabulary limitations.
Smart Word Prediction
As the user types, intelligent word prediction suggests the most likely next words based on what's been typed so far. This dramatically reduces the number of keystrokes needed, making communication faster — especially for users with motor difficulties.
Predictions adapt to the user's vocabulary over time, learning frequently used words and phrases to offer increasingly relevant suggestions.
Phrase History & Favorites
Text & Keyboard remembers recently spoken phrases and lets users save frequently used messages as favorites. Instead of retyping common expressions, users can recall them with a single tap.
This combines the speed advantage of Quickfires with the unlimited flexibility of typed text — pre-saved phrases for speed, full keyboard for everything else.
Key Features
Text & Keyboard mode gives literate users a fast, flexible, and fully accessible way to communicate.
Full QWERTY Keyboard
A complete on-screen keyboard optimized for AAC use, with large keys and accessible layout.
Word Prediction
Intelligent suggestions reduce keystrokes and speed up typing for faster communication.
Phrase History
Recently spoken messages are saved and can be re-spoken with one tap.
7-Language Speech
Typed text is spoken aloud in any of 7 supported languages with natural text-to-speech.
Editable Sentence Bar
Review and edit your message before speaking. Delete words, rearrange, and refine.
Switch Anytime
Move between Text & Keyboard and Symbol Grid modes freely — both are always available.
Who Benefits from Text & Keyboard?
For anyone who can type or is learning to type and wants unlimited communication flexibility.
Literate AAC Users
Users who can read and spell but cannot speak or have unclear speechTeens & Adults
Older users who prefer typing over picture-based communicationAcquired Conditions
Adults who lost speech due to ALS, Parkinson's, stroke, or surgeryDeveloping Literacy
Users transitioning from symbols to text-based communicationAutism Spectrum
Some users on the spectrum communicate more comfortably through textSelective Mutism
Users who can type what they want to say when speaking feels difficultTemporary Voice Loss
Post-surgery or illness recovery where voice rest is neededMultilingual Users
Users who communicate in multiple languages and need flexible text inputText & Keyboard vs. Symbol Grid
Both modes are always available — switch based on what works best in the moment.
Type any word in any language. No vocabulary limits. Best for literate users who want full control over their message.
Select from 2,000+ symbols organized by category. Best for users who rely on picture recognition.
Use symbols for quick everyday communication and switch to keyboard when you need a specific word or phrase not in the symbol set.
Text & Keyboard Resources
Guides and materials for getting started with text-based communication.
Keyboard Setup Guide
How to configure keyboard layout, prediction settings, and speech output preferences.
Literacy Transition Guide
Strategies for moving from symbol-based to text-based communication as literacy develops.
ALS & Acquired Conditions Guide
Best practices for setting up Text & Keyboard for adults with progressive or acquired speech loss.
Try Text & Keyboard today
Download Isaac AAC for free and start typing to speak — included in every installation alongside all other communication modes.
