SimpleReads is a browser‑based tool that lets students read online content without distraction by overlaying a blur filter and zoom function directly on the page. It includes a side notepad for zero‑toggle note‑taking and can export those notes cleanly to Google Docs, helping learners—especially those with ADHD or dyslexia—maintain focus and retain information.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Students often lose focus when reading online because digital pages contain ads, navigation elements, and other distractions, leading to reduced comprehension and retention, especially for learners with ADHD or dyslexia.
Solution
SimpleReads is a browser‑based overlay that lets readers concentrate on web content by applying a blur effect to surrounding page elements and enlarging the text of the article. A persistent side notepad appears alongside the page, allowing users to capture ideas without switching tabs. Notes are saved automatically and can be exported directly to Google Docs for further editing or sharing. The tool is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing reading workflows, requiring no additional software installation or configuration.
Target Audience
Primary users are K‑12 and higher‑education students, particularly those with attention‑related challenges such as ADHD or dyslexia, as well as educators seeking tools to improve classroom reading retention.
Features
- Blur overlay that masks peripheral page content while keeping the main article visible
- Adjustable zoom to increase text size for improved readability
- Integrated side notepad that records notes in place, eliminating the need for separate applications
- Automatic saving of notes with a single click to export cleanly to Google Docs
- Zero‑toggle interface that activates directly on the current webpage without page reloads