Google Play Books is revolutionising World Book Day 2025 with the launch of enhanced interactive reading tools on April 23. The platform introduces comprehensive features, including audiobook support, vocabulary aids, and reading practice tools designed to boost literacy engagement for families and children.

The latest update focuses heavily on accessibility and interactive learning through the Reading Practice feature, specifically tailored for children aged 0-8. This innovative tool tracks reading progress by highlighting text as children read aloud, while providing instant pronunciation assistance and child-friendly definitions for challenging words.

Parents can now take advantage of the auto-narration feature, which synchronises audio playback with text to enhance reading comprehension. The platform also offers extensive customisation options, allowing users to organise their digital libraries with genre-based shelves, synchronise notes to Google Drive for collaborative learning, and access content offline across various devices, including Android Auto.

In celebration of World Book Day 2025, Google has partnered with major publishers to feature interactive titles such as “LEGO® Our Amazing Universe” from DK and “The Soccer Diaries Rocky Takes the Lead.” These collaborations emphasise multimedia engagement and feature integrated audiobook suggestions from the World Book Day collection.

The Reading Practice feature can be easily accessed by opening any children’s book in the Play Books app on Android or iOS devices. Users can activate pronunciation guides with a simple tap, while the audiobook feature is readily available in the World Book Day 2025 section, marked with a “Listen” icon.

With over one billion downloads globally, Google Play Books has emerged as a significant platform for addressing literacy challenges. The app offers English-focused pronunciation tools with plans for expansion to other languages, and users in eligible regions can earn Google Play Points with their purchases.

Educational experts have particularly praised the auto-scroll narration feature as an effective tool for struggling readers, enabling them to follow text while listening to professional narration. This multimodal approach has proven particularly beneficial for developing reading skills.

Looking ahead, Google has announced plans to expand the Reading Practice tools to support multiple languages and incorporate AI-driven pronunciation feedback. The company’s ongoing collaboration with publishers like Scholastic and DK aims to introduce interactive quizzes to children’s books by late 2025, further enhancing the platform’s educational value.

News Source: https://blog.google/feed/world-book-day-2025/