Reader

The reader turns a PDF into audio and plays it back word for word — so you can just listen, like an audiobook, or follow along with the words highlighted as they're read. It's made for dense readings you'd rather hear than stare at.

The Kyonote reader playing a PDF with text highlighted

How it works

Open a PDF in a notebook and tap Reader (a.k.a. Listen). Kyonote reads it aloud, start to finish. Put your phone in your pocket and just listen on the walk, or keep it open and let each line light up so you never lose your place. Pause, scrub back, and pick up where you left off anytime.

Unlike a podcast, the reader doesn't summarize or discuss — it reads the actual text of the PDF, word for word.

When to reach for it

• Listening on the go. Press play and get through a chapter on the commute or at the gym — no screen needed.
• Long, dense readings. A heavy chapter is easier to get through when you can listen and follow along.
• Resting your eyes. After a long day of reading, letting the reader carry a chapter is a gentler way to keep going.

Reader vs podcast

• Use the reader when you want the actual text, in full — to listen to or read along with.
• Use a podcast when you want the material explained and discussed by two hosts.

Both pull from the same notebook, so you can switch between them depending on the moment.