Bionic Reader Extension

A concept called Bionic Reading aims to increase readability of text for humans. This extension auto-converts text into Bionic.

Bionic Reader Extension - Improve Readability of Text

Bionic Reader Extension is a Chrome extension created to improve readability. It auto-converts text into Bionic and supports various features like native notifications and text styling customization.
Install from Chrome Web Store

Extension stats

By: Quasso
Users: 67
5
Version: 1.0.1 (Last updated: 2022-05-31)
Creation date: 2022-05-30
Risk impact: Moderate risk impact
Risk likelihood:
Manifest version: 3
Permissions:
  • activeTab
  • scripting
  • notifications
Size: 28.90K

Other platforms

Not available on Android
Not available on Firefox
Not available on Edge
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Extension summary

This was created for fun by a passionate developer after reading an example of this in use on LinkedIn. The code for this extension is open source.

Right now, it supports:

  • automatic generation of bionic text on websites matching a list the extension has hardcoded for additional privacy
  • native notifications
  • toggling 'bionic' status on, "custom" or off after it's been rendered on a page (helps see the difference at a glance and it may not always look ideal!)

(Custom overrides the default styling of the text in an attempt to increase legibility, this could be user configurable in future!)

There are currently 32 supported sites, but I cannot list them here because the platform automatically rejects the submission (due to 'keyword spam').

NOTE: I have noticed some of these websites will quickly override custom styles the extension applies, which can impact the functionality of the extension. I'm sure a workaround could be sought for this, but they are probably using some script to monitor changes to HTML in the DOM I'd imagine (e.g. BBC news does this, however the text override styling still works).

Please feel free to contact me if you have ideas for new features.

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Extension safety

Risk impact

Bionic Reader Extension requires a few sensitive permissions. Exercise caution before installing.

Risk likelihood

Bionic Reader Extension has earned a good reputation and can be trusted.

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