---
title: startReading()
framework: avfoundation
role: symbol
role_heading: Instance Method
path: avfoundation/avassetreader/startreading()
---

# startReading()

Prepares the asset reader to start reading sample buffers from the asset.

## Declaration

```swift
func startReading() -> Bool
```

## Return Value

Return Value true if the reader is able to start reading; otherwise, false.

## Discussion

Discussion If this method returns false, you can determine the reason by checking the values of the status and error properties.

## See Also

### Controlling reading

- [start()](avfoundation/avassetreader/start().md)
- [cancelReading()](avfoundation/avassetreader/cancelreading().md)