How to Install and Use the Helperbird Add-on for Google Drive

Install Helperbird Google Docs and Slides add-on. Add accessibility features to your Google Workspace documents and presentations.

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Helperbird for Google Drive brings all your favorite accessibility features right into your files. Open PDFs in a more accessible way, use dyslexia-friendly fonts, and access all of Helperbird's tools without leaving Google Drive.


Installing Helperbird for Google Drive

Step 1: Check Your Setup

You'll need a Google Account and Helperbird version 107 or later for the best experience.


Step 2: Install the Add-on

Head to the Google Workspace Marketplace and search for Helperbird.

Click Install and follow the prompts.


Step 3: Start Using It

Once installed, Helperbird will appear as an option when you open files in Google Drive.

Tip: If you're using a work or school account, you might need admin approval to install add-ons.


Opening PDFs with Helperbird

Step 1: Find Your PDF

Open Google Drive and click on the PDF you want to read.


Step 2: Use "Open with"

At the top of the PDF preview, click the Open with dropdown button.


Step 3: Select Helperbird

Choose Open in Helperbird from the list. The PDF will open in a new tab with all your accessibility tools.

Tip: The first time you open a PDF, you might see a popup asking for permission. Just click "Yes" or "Allow."


Using Right-Click to Open PDFs

Step 1: Find Your PDF

Go to Google Drive and locate the PDF file you want to open.


Step 2: Right-Click the File

Right-click directly on the PDF file. A context menu will appear.


Step 3: Open in Helperbird

Select Open in Helperbird from the menu. Your PDF will open in Helperbird's reader in a new tab.

Tip: Right-clicking is the fastest way to open PDFs in Helperbird, especially when working with multiple files.


Video Tutorial


Need Additional Help?

Ran into a snag while getting started? No worries at all! Just reach out to our friendly Helperbird support team, and we'll help you smooth things out in no time.

What People Are Saying

Join over 1,000,000 people who use Helperbird every day.

This is my first google review ever! I have to share that the accessibility and support for independent access for students that Helperbird provides, is a game changer. It is constantly being updated with new features based on feedback and it is extremely user friendly. The ability to customize the settings allows students to have control over their own learning, aligning with Universal Design for Learning. Looking forward to sharing with students and fellow educators on a daily basis. Thanks, Helperbird team!

Kelli Suding

Kelli Suding

Assistive technology specialist

It was helpful at all times for me! I love this tool!

Heather Shepard

Heather Shepard

Helperbird user

omg i can actually read now

Spin F.

Spin F.

Helperbird user

Works a treat. This is brill!

Sue Dowdall

Sue Dowdall

Helperbird user

They were super fast with response time when helping me meet a deadline and very kind when corresponding. If the app is anything like their customer service then I am happy with my purchase!

DD BA

DD BA

Helperbird user

Making such an useful tool, replying to every single comment or review and giving support to people's issues as soon as possible?? Carefully, he is a hero.

Martin Bui

Martin Bui

Helperbird user

Helperbird logo: Stylized owl with large yellow eyes and a beige face, against a green background.

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