The Sounding Out Machine

The Sounding Out Machine

Assistive Reading Device

30 ratings
24 reviews

Archived App (Last seen on 22 Aug 2025)

This is an archived listing of the app previously available on the App Store.

Although the app is no longer distributed by Apple, you can still view its description, screenshots, version history, ratings, and metadata for reference.

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • December 12, 2015
  • April 18, 2019

Features

The Sounding Out Machine screenshot #1 for iPad
The Sounding Out Machine screenshot #2 for iPad
The Sounding Out Machine screenshot #3 for iPad
The Sounding Out Machine screenshot #4 for iPad
The Sounding Out Machine screenshot #5 for iPad
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About

This app assists children with reading by helping them focus on challenging words and modeling how to sound them out using phonics. It offers various modes for inputting text and customizable features to support individual learning needs.

Word Window for isolating and enlarging words
Models word chunking and phonics blending
Camera and Library modes for text input
Typing mode for direct word entry
Customizable digital word card and pointer
Reports challenging words to teachers
Supports various phonics models
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What's New in The Sounding Out Machine

2.0

April 18, 2019

Updated for latest iOS

User reviews

Found this gem of an app. Just wish I found it sooner!

Can’t believe there is no recent review of this great app. I hope even more that the creators continue to develop it. With the last two years especially, reading and speech have been impacted. This is such a wonderful tool that empowers them to figure it out or click the “teach me”. We used the option type your own word option when coming across a word they didn’t understand. So the act of typing helps link the letter to sound recognition as well as the wonderfully sounded out words. Please please please keep adding to the library. Going to pass this app along to others.
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The app is bad

The Cramer dos not work do not wast your money

Can be helpful

This app is fun and colorful. However, we found it difficult as you have to take a picture of the page you want to use. Then, you have to type the word you need help with. It does sound out the words great and my daughter was able to follow along. So, as long as you know you have to type in the words, it works great.
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Helpful for struggling readers

I tried out this app and can see its use to help readers when they come to a word they don't know. I like how it can color chunk out parts of words for older readers. I found typing in the word was the best way to use this. When I took a picture and put a box around it, I still had to type the word in, so that was disappointing. I can also see using this as part of a phonics lesson in small groups of beginning readers.
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Great for helping special needs kids!

My son has autism and is just getting his words... this is that extra bit of help he needs sounding out new words! Great idea! Love that after working with him a little, he will be able to work on photos of his reading pages independently. He loves not having to ask me all the time!

Developer apps

FAQ

What does The Sounding Out Machine do?

The Sounding Out Machine is an assistive reading device designed to help children focus on difficult words in their reading material. It models how to break down words into syllables and use phonics skills to sound them out, mimicking the support a teacher would provide.

What are the key features of this app?

Key features include a 'Word Window' to isolate and enlarge challenging words, modes for inputting text via camera, library snapshots, or typing, customizable digital word cards and pointers for text tracking, and reporting of challenging words to teachers. It also supports various phonics models.

How much does The Sounding Out Machine cost?

The application is a paid app. There are no in-app purchases or advertisements mentioned, indicating a one-time purchase for full access to its features.

Who would benefit from using this app?

Students who need modeling in chunking words and using phonics strategies, those who feel overwhelmed by text, children who have difficulty coordinating an index card on a book page, and those who prefer reading on a screen can all benefit from this app.

Can the app handle different forms of words?

Yes, the app is designed to handle multiple forms of root words, such as "reply," "replies," "replied," and "replying." This feature helps young readers avoid getting stuck on word variations and allows them to continue their reading work more smoothly.