The latest version of the leading JAWS screen reader is now compatible with Mozilla's Firefox, a free web browser that has rapidly gained in popularity, according to Freedom Scientific, the manufacturer of JAWS.

Work on making all the functions of Firefox accessible to users of JAWS version 7.0 is still at an early stage but will be ongoing, Freedom Scientific said in a statement. "The goal is to make all of the features and useful tools available in Internet Explorer available for Firefox as well. You'll be able to use navigation quick keys, PlaceMarkers, custom labels, lists of HTML elements, and more," the company said.

Users of JAWS will also be able to access the latest instant messaging products, MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger. These enable users to be notified when friends or colleagues are online, exchange files and messages, and make phone calls using their computers. JAWS version 7.0 is also easier to use on the move, because settings can now be stored on the flash memory sticks that plug into PCs.

Users wanting to compare the product with earlier versions, or with other screen readers, can download a free demonstration version at: