FAQ

SimpleReads is a browser extension designed to make online reading calmer and more usable — so you can stay in the flow and actually retain what you read.

SimpleReads is built for anyone who struggles with tab-hopping, distraction, or overload — especially students and people who prefer simpler, focus-first interfaces.

Most tools pull you away from what you’re reading. SimpleReads keeps your attention anchored so you can capture ideas without breaking your momentum.

No account is required for the basics. If you choose to enable optional features like saving/exporting, you may connect a service you already use.

It works on most standard webpages. Some sites with heavy security restrictions or unusual layouts may limit what any extension can do — we’re continuously improving compatibility.

Blur + Zoom helps you narrow your attention to what matters on the page. The Side Notepad lets you jot quick notes while you read. We keep certain implementation details private to protect the product.

Yes — SimpleReads is designed as a cognitive accessibility tool that reduces interface friction and visual noise, especially for neurodivergent learners.

SimpleReads includes a clean reading experience designed to reduce visual clutter. Availability can vary by site and browser behavior.

Privacy is a core value. We aim to collect the minimum data needed to run and improve the product. See our Privacy Policy.

SimpleReads offers free access for individuals, with optional paid capabilities for power users. (Specific pricing may vary as we evolve.)

Use the About page or your preferred contact method, and share: your browser, what site you were on, and what you expected to happen. That helps us fix things fast.

SimpleReads for Schools is the same focus-first extension, used in classrooms to support intentional reading and cleaner note-taking — without adding friction for teachers or IT teams.

SimpleReads is built for Chrome and works well on Chromebooks. If your district is Chrome-based, setup is typically straightforward.

Students sign into Chrome, install from the Chrome Web Store, and pin the extension. For managed environments, IT can deploy it like other Chrome extensions (pilot scope varies by district).

It works on most standard webpages. Some locked-down platforms or unusual embedded viewers can limit extension behavior. If you share a resource list, we can quickly confirm best practices for your environment.

A pilot is typically a small rollout (one class, support group, or grade-level) with lightweight onboarding and check-ins. The goal is to validate fit with classroom routines before expanding.

Many schools use focus and cognitive-accessibility supports as part of accommodations. The best fit depends on student needs, but SimpleReads is built with neurodivergent learners and accessibility-first design in mind.

We aim to collect the minimum data needed to run and improve the product. We do not sell student data and do not use student content to target ads. See the Privacy Policy for specifics.

For many pilots, IT involvement is minimal. For broader deployment, IT can manage installs and settings through existing Chrome admin workflows (exact steps depend on your district setup).

Yes. Many teachers simply add a routine like “use focus mode for this reading” and “capture 3 takeaways.” SimpleReads is designed to support existing reading/annotation workflows, not replace them.

Start with the Schools page and connect your school to a pilot. Visit SimpleReads for Schools for the rollout steps.