What is a teleprompter?
A teleprompter is a device or app that displays scrolling text so a speaker can read a script while appearing to look straight at the camera or audience. It is used by presenters, broadcasters, video creators, and speakers to deliver scripted words smoothly without memorizing them or glancing down at notes.
How a teleprompter works
The text scrolls at a set pace on a screen at or near the line of sight. On professional rigs, angled glass reflects a screen so the text sits over the lens, mirrored so it reads correctly. A software teleprompter does the same on a phone, tablet, laptop, or monitor.
Teleprompter vs autocue vs confidence monitor
Autocue is a common name for the same thing, after the original brand. A confidence monitor is a screen facing the presenter that can show a teleprompter script, slides, or a timer.
Who uses a teleprompter
Speakers and keynote presenters read from a confidence monitor at the front of the stage. Broadcasters and hosts read from glass over the studio camera. Video creators prompt themselves through to-camera pieces. Church and worship teams put the order of service on a stage-facing screen for the platform team. Webinar hosts and executives keep town halls and all-hands on message. If you have ever memorized a talk out of fear of losing your place, a teleprompter is the tool that removes the fear.
How to use one without a rig
You do not need studio gear. Open a teleprompter in your browser, put it on the screen nearest your lens, and control the scroll from your phone. Flip the text if you are reading through teleprompter glass.
A teleprompter script, ready to read
Welcome, and thanks for watching.
A teleprompter lets you read a script
while looking straight at your audience.
The text scrolls at your pace,
so you sound like yourself, not like a reader.
That is the whole trick.
Questions
What does teleprompter mean?
A teleprompter is a device or app that shows a script as scrolling text near a camera lens or in a presenter's line of sight, so the speaker can read while appearing to speak naturally to the audience.
How does a teleprompter work?
The script scrolls on a screen at a controlled pace. On studio rigs, angled glass reflects the screen over the lens, with the text mirrored so it reads correctly. Software teleprompters do the same job on a phone, tablet, or monitor.
Can I use a teleprompter for free?
Yes. NextPrompt is free to start: a working two-screen teleprompter with Control and Display links and real-time sync. The live demo opens with just your email, no account needed.