Claude Code Screen Reader Mode: Accessible Terminal Coding

1 day ago

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⚡ TL;DR Start claude --ax-screen-reader (v2.1.181+) or set CLAUDE_AX_SCREEN_READER=1 or axScreenReader in settings. Output is labeled you:, claude: and tool:, with numbered menus.

Terminal tools aren't always friendly to assistive tech. Claude Code screen reader mode fixes that.

Accessibility guide. ♿

♿ Turning On Claude Code Screen Reader Mode

Use Claude Code v2.1.181 or later and start with claude --ax-screen-reader. The first line announces the mode is on.

⚙️ Making It Permanent

Options:

🌍 Set CLAUDE_AX_SCREEN_READER=1 for every terminal session
📝 Add "axScreenReader": true to ~/.claude/settings.json

Don't confuse it with CLAUDE_CODE_ACCESSIBILITY, which only keeps the cursor visible for magnifiers.

🎧 Navigating Output

Prompts start with you:, replies with claude:, and tool activity with tool:. Menus are numbered lists, yes/no prompts take y or n, and the terminal bell signals attention.

💡 Pro tip Search for claude: to jump straight to the latest reply.

🐞 Reporting Issues

Report problems on the Claude Code GitHub issues page with your OS, terminal and screen reader version.

Claude Code screen reader mode opens agentic coding to more developers. Need accessible dev tooling? Lord Of The Wix can advise. ✨

❓ Claude Code screen reader FAQ

How do I enable screen reader mode?

Start Claude Code with --ax-screen-reader.

Which version is required?

v2.1.181 or later.

How do I make it permanent?

Set CLAUDE_AX_SCREEN_READER=1 or axScreenReader in settings.

How is output labeled?

you:, claude: and tool:.

Is CLAUDE_CODE_ACCESSIBILITY the same?

No. It only keeps the cursor visible.

🙏 Credit: This article is based on public information from the Claude Help Center. Claude is a product of Anthropic. Source: support.claude.com.

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