macOS · Research guidance. Instructions are based on publisher guidance; a UK IPTV account was not tested on this platform.
Choose a text-reading task
Hover Text is useful when you need a larger version of an interface label or other supported text without enlarging the whole desktop. It is different from a programme’s subtitles and from video magnification. Identify the written item you cannot comfortably read before enabling the feature.
Enable the Mac control
Apple documents System Settings, Accessibility, Hover Text. Turn on Hover Text and review its appearance options. The current settings can also include related Hover Typing and Hover Colour features, but those have different tasks. Use the named text feature rather than assuming that every nearby switch needs to be enabled.
Activate over the intended text
Apple’s documented default action is to move the pointer over text and hold Command to display a larger version. Try a harmless menu label or programme description. If you have customised the activation modifier, use the key selected in the feature’s settings. Release it and confirm that the normal interface remains available.
Make the enlarged view readable
Review the feature’s text size, font and colour controls if the enlarged presentation itself is uncomfortable. Apple also documents an optional activation lock using a modifier-key sequence. Enable that only if you prefer it and understand how to turn the lock off. A momentary view may be simpler for occasional labels.
Interpret missing text carefully
A custom image or text drawn inside a video may not behave like ordinary interface text. If Hover Text does not enlarge that item, describe the specific element and use another supported access route rather than promising universal recognition. Do not change account settings or programme quality to compensate for a text-presentation limitation.
Questions, answered
What is the documented default activation?
Place the pointer over text and hold Command after enabling Hover Text.
Is it the same as enlarging video subtitles?
No. Caption appearance and custom video text may need different controls.