How to Install and Use the Helperbird Add-on for Google Drive

Install Helperbird Google Docs and Slides add-on. Add accessibility features to your Google Workspace documents and presentations.

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Helperbird for Google Drive brings all your favorite accessibility features right into your files. Open PDFs in a more accessible way, use dyslexia-friendly fonts, and access all of Helperbird's tools without leaving Google Drive.


Installing Helperbird for Google Drive

Step 1: Check Your Setup

You'll need a Google Account and Helperbird version 107 or later for the best experience.


Step 2: Install the Add-on

Head to the Google Workspace Marketplace and search for Helperbird.

Click Install and follow the prompts.


Step 3: Start Using It

Once installed, Helperbird will appear as an option when you open files in Google Drive.

Tip: If you're using a work or school account, you might need admin approval to install add-ons.


Opening PDFs with Helperbird

Step 1: Find Your PDF

Open Google Drive and click on the PDF you want to read.


Step 2: Use "Open with"

At the top of the PDF preview, click the Open with dropdown button.


Step 3: Select Helperbird

Choose Open in Helperbird from the list. The PDF will open in a new tab with all your accessibility tools.

Tip: The first time you open a PDF, you might see a popup asking for permission. Just click "Yes" or "Allow."


Using Right-Click to Open PDFs

Step 1: Find Your PDF

Go to Google Drive and locate the PDF file you want to open.


Step 2: Right-Click the File

Right-click directly on the PDF file. A context menu will appear.


Step 3: Open in Helperbird

Select Open in Helperbird from the menu. Your PDF will open in Helperbird's reader in a new tab.

Tip: Right-clicking is the fastest way to open PDFs in Helperbird, especially when working with multiple files.


Video Tutorial


Need Additional Help?

Ran into a snag while getting started? No worries at all! Just reach out to our friendly Helperbird support team, and we'll help you smooth things out in no time.

What People Are Saying

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Saw it mentioned at Cast last night! Love Immersive Reader.

Taylor Coffee

Taylor Coffee

Firefox user

I am getting such great support from Robert. I enjoy working with him. He answers my questions very quickly. Thanks so much for your great support and a great product.

Terry Martin

Terry Martin

Assistive technology specialist

So far ive got nothing but amazing things to say about this extension. It helps everyday life so much!

Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Helperbird user

Brilliant extension! Have tired it for my daughter and she has come on leaps in school. While there are plenty of free features, the paid ones are only 30 USD a year. Can't recommend this enough.

Gary O'Connor

Gary O'Connor

Helperbird user

Amazing in eliminating embarrassing mistakes. Am one happy kid here!

Brian Borland

Brian Borland

Helperbird user

I have been a user of Helperbird for the past year or so and a huge fan of the work Robert has done. I have switched from Chrome to Firefox and glad this here too. 5/5. Can't wait for Voice Typing support

Damon Robin

Damon Robin

Firefox user

Helperbird logo: Stylized owl with large yellow eyes and a beige face, against a green background.

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