Product Introduction

1. Zen Reader is a Chrome and Firefox browser extension specifically designed to enhance reading focus for neurodivergent users and individuals with ADHD. It transforms web content into structured, digestible formats through text chunking and interface simplification. The tool operates directly within browsers to modify webpage layouts in real time without requiring copy-paste actions.

2. The core value lies in its ability to reduce cognitive overload through engineered visual processing enhancements. By systematically removing distracting elements and applying evidence-based attention retention techniques, it enables sustained engagement with digital text content. The product addresses executive function challenges through technological interventions rather than behavioral modifications.

Main Features

1. The extension implements dynamic content restructuring that splits paragraphs into adjustable text blocks while preserving semantic coherence. This chunking mechanism uses algorithmic analysis to maintain logical breaks at natural language boundaries such as sentence endings or clause separators. Users can control block size through a sliding scale from 1-10 sentence units.

2. Integrated Text-to-Speech functionality employs multiple voice engines with adjustable speed (30-400 WPM), pitch (50-200Hz), and 12 voice profiles. The audio synchronization highlights text blocks in real-time during playback, creating bimodal sensory input. Speech output can be toggled independently or combined with visual reading modes.

3. Visual customization includes 9 preset theme packages combining background hues (RGB calibrated for low blue light), typefaces (OpenDyslexic optimized), and spacing parameters (1.5-2.5x line height). Advanced settings allow manual adjustment of 18 color variables, 5 font families, and margin widths. Focus mode implements a typewriter-style spotlight effect that dims non-essential content.

Problems Solved

1. The product directly combats paragraph intimidation syndrome common in ADHD by transforming wall-of-text displays into sequential reading units. Technical implementation prevents visual overwhelm through systematic reduction of on-screen elements from an average of 200+ to 15-20 visual components per page.

2. Primary user demographics include adults aged 18-45 with clinically diagnosed attention disorders and self-identified neurodivergent students. Secondary users encompass professionals requiring extended technical documentation review capabilities and elderly users adapting to digital reading formats.

3. Typical applications include academic research paper consumption, long-form article digestion, and procedural documentation review. Specific use cases involve preventing mid-paragraph attention drift during online learning modules and reducing rereading frequency in professional certification exam preparation.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike generic reader modes, Zen Reader incorporates ADHD-specific interventions including progressive text revelation and sustained position memory across sessions. The system stores reading progress per article URL with timestamped recovery points, surviving browser restarts and device changes through cloud sync.

2. The proprietary attention maintenance algorithm combines fixation anchoring (through highlighted text blocks) with controlled content flow (via speed-adjusted scrolling). This dual-channel approach exceeds basic font adjustments offered by competitors like BeeLine Reader or Spreeder.

3. Competitive differentiation stems from creator Samuel Puigdellivol's first-hand development perspective as documented in the "About the creator" section. The tool's architecture reflects lived experience with ADHD challenges rather than purely clinical research, resulting in practical features like one-click distraction stripping without complex configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does Zen Reader handle password-protected or paywalled content? The extension processes text through DOM manipulation rather than content scraping, making it compatible with authenticated pages and subscription-based platforms. It cannot bypass paywalls but will reformat visible text after successful login.

2. Can the reading position saving feature work across multiple devices? Yes, progress synchronization occurs through encrypted browser storage with optional Google Account integration. Users must enable cross-device sync in Chrome/Firefox settings and maintain consistent login credentials.

3. What languages does the Text-to-Speech function support? The feature currently supports 7 languages (English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch) using native browser speech synthesis APIs. Pronunciation accuracy varies by platform, with Windows and macOS offering higher-quality voices than Linux distributions.