Convert Web Articles to Audio Podcasts in Chrome

Convert Web Articles to Audio Podcasts in Chrome

Are you tired of staring at your screen for hours just to read long news articles, blog posts or research papers? What if you could turn any webpage into a natural-sounding podcast and listen on the go? In this guide, you’ll discover how to use a completely free Chrome extension powered by ElevenLabs, Hume AI and Straico TTS to transform text into high-quality audio. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or simply prefer listening over reading, this solution makes your favorite web content accessible, hands-free and engaging.

Why Listen to Web Articles Hands-Free?

Screenshot of Chrome extension interface showing audio playback controls while an article is read aloud
  • Multitasking: Cook, workout or commute while listening.
  • Accessibility: Great for users with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
  • Retention: Auditory learning can boost comprehension and memory.
  • Productivity: Consume more content in less time, even offline.

Step 1: Install the Free Chrome Extension

Head over to the Chrome Web Store and click Add to Chrome. This extension, “Speak the Selection — Rea,” unifies three premium neural TTS engines into one simple toolbar button. Once installed, you’ll see a small speaker icon in your Chrome toolbar.

Step 2: Add Your API Keys

To unlock high-quality voices, you need free monthly credits from:

  1. ElevenLabs: Sign up for an API key and copy it into the extension settings under “ElevenLabs API Key.”
  2. Hume AI: Register on Hume’s platform to obtain your key and paste it under “Hume AI Key.”
  3. Straico TTS: Get your Straico credentials by signing up at Straico’s website and enter them in the extension.

After adding all three keys, click “Save” and refresh your browser. The extension will now load each provider’s voices.

Step 3: Choose and Customize Your Voice

Click the speaker icon anytime to open the voice selector. You can browse voices from ElevenLabs, Hume AI and Straico TTS. Use the controls to adjust:

  • Stability: Smoothness of speech.
  • Similarity Boost: How closely it matches the original voice style.
  • Style: Formal, conversational or narrative tones.

Once you find your ideal voice, click “Set as Default.” You can switch voices on the fly based on the content type you’re listening to.

On-Page Read-Aloud and Playback Controls

Highlight any section of text and press the “Read Aloud” button, or simply right-click and select “Read Aloud Selection” to start. A compact, floating player appears with:

  • Play/Pause and Stop buttons
  • Seek bar to jump forward or back
  • Speed controls (0.5x to 2x)
  • Volume adjustment

This means you can follow along visually as the extension highlights each word in real time, boosting comprehension and accessibility.

Watch the Live Demo

Step 4: Convert to a Downloadable MP3

If you want offline access, the extension lets you export audio files:

  1. Select the full article or a custom text snippet.
  2. Click “Convert to Audio” in the toolbar menu.
  3. Choose your file format (MP3 or WAV) and click “Download.”
Pro Tip: Use the character and duration counter to estimate your download size and playback length before exporting.

Managing Free Credits and Best Practices

Each provider offers approximately 20–30 minutes of free speech per month. To make the most of your credits:

  • Batch process similar articles in one session.
  • Limit conversions to essential content.
  • Monitor usage in the extension’s dashboard.

If you occasionally need more, consider a paid plan on your preferred TTS service.

Ready to See It in Action? 🎬

Watch the full tutorial on YouTube now to get all the details and see live voice demos in real time!

▶️ Watch the full video on YouTube

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