read-frog: Learn Languages While Reading the Web

Overview

Read Frog is a browser extension that turns web pages and YouTube subtitles into a language-learning workspace. It addresses the friction of switching between a page and separate translation or study tools by bringing translations, explanations, audio, and saved study material into the browser.

It is suited to learners who want to read real-world content at their own pace and tailor AI-assisted help to their needs. The project supports Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, and can use either AI providers configured by the user or several free translation options.

Key Features

• Display translated web content in bilingual or translation-only mode.
• Translate selected text, request explanations, or listen to it with text-to-speech.
• Use page context to help produce translations that fit the surrounding content.
• Translate YouTube subtitles alongside the original subtitles.
• Save vocabulary and reading notes to Notebase, then review them as flashcards with spaced repetition.
• Create custom AI actions for workflows such as dictionary lookups, rewriting, and summaries.
• Connect to 20+ AI providers, or use Google Translate, Microsoft Translate, and DeepLX for basic translation.
• Batch translation requests to reduce API costs, with retry and fallback behavior described in the README.

Use Cases

• Language learners reading articles in a target language can compare original text with translations without leaving the page.
• Learners encountering unfamiliar words can select text for a translation, explanation, or spoken pronunciation.
• People studying through online video can view translated YouTube subtitles alongside the originals.
• Readers who want to retain vocabulary can save discoveries as notes and review them later with flashcards.
• Users with an AI provider account can configure a preferred model for contextual translation or custom reading actions.

Getting Started

Install Read Frog from the Chrome Web Store, Microsoft Edge Add-ons, or Firefox Add-ons. See the README and tutorial for setup and provider configuration details.

Considerations

• AI features that use external providers require the relevant provider configuration and may involve API costs. The README also lists free translation options.
• The project is under active development, and the README invites users to report issues and feedback.
• The repository describes its licensing as dual-licensed under GPLv3 and a commercial license. Check the repository’s license and contributor terms for details relevant to your use.
• Browser store availability and features may vary by browser. Read Frog lists Chrome, Edge, and Firefox support.