How to Use Beta Features in Helperbird
Learn how to turn on Helperbird beta features from the settings page.
Jump to the stepsOn this page7 sections
What are Beta Features?
Beta features are tools we are still improving. Each has its own switch, and you can change your choices at any time. Two reading features start on; online lessons and direct dictation start off.
Step 1: Open the Settings Page
Open Helperbird, choose the gear icon, then Settings at the bottom of the Options list. The settings page opens in a new tab.
See opening Settings if you need help finding it.
Step 2: Find Beta Features
Scroll to Beta features for Read text in online lessons and Readable Google Slides. Highlight spoken words has moved to Text to speech settings. Voice typing into the page has moved to Voice typing settings. The Beta features card has no links to them.
View full-size image (opens in a new tab)Step 3: Turn One On
Choose the switch beside the feature. Changes save automatically. Refresh a webpage if it was already open and has not picked up your change.
What is Available Right Now
| Setting | What it does | Starts |
|---|---|---|
| Highlight spoken words | Now in Text to speech settings, with its switch and color choices. Beta features has no link to it. | On |
| Read text in online lessons | Tries read-aloud for selected text inside supported embedded lessons. | Off |
| Readable Google Slides | Opens supported view-only decks as text so reading tools can work. Editable slides stay unchanged. | On |
| Voice typing into the page | Now in Voice typing settings. Uses the floating toolbar to fill a selected field, including Google Docs. | Off |
When Readable Google Slides is on, expand More options to find Also use in presentations. That separate switch starts off because it changes the view while you are presenting. Your browser's Back button returns to the original slides.
If the Switches are Greyed Out
Managed by your admin means your organization controls that setting. Contact the person who manages Helperbird at your school or workplace.
Need Additional Help?
If a Beta feature is not working for your page, turn it off and let support know.
Printed from the Helperbird Help Center · Updated October 26th, 2026
Questions? We are happy to help — helperbird.com/support