Google’s AI Note-Taking App NotebookLM Now Offers Voice Explanations for Complex Topics

On Wednesday, Google unveiled an exciting new feature for its AI-powered note-taking and research app, NotebookLM: the "Audio Overview." This feature provides users with a fresh way to absorb and understand the content of their uploaded documents, including academic readings and legal briefs.

Since its initial release, NotebookLM has primarily focused on text-based summaries and explanations. With the introduction of Audio Overview, users can now listen to the information, catering to those who prefer auditory learning.

AI-generated virtual hosts will employ conversational speech patterns to summarize the materials you've shared. These hosts will present key facts and engaging topics while using metaphors to clarify complex concepts. Google asserts that these audio discussions will help users uncover new insights between documents and spark inspiration for their writing projects.

To use the Audio Overview feature, simply open an existing notebook, go to the Notebook guide, and click the “generate” button located on the right side. The audio summaries may take up to five minutes to create, and currently, the feature is only available in English.

Additionally, users can download the audio conversation for on-the-go listening, making it easier to grasp the essence of their source materials quickly.

It's important to note that Audio Overview is still in beta, which means there could be occasional inaccuracies in the audio outputs, as mentioned by Google. The app, previously known as Project Tailwind, was demoed at Google I/O in June 2023 and became available to users aged 18 and older in the U.S. last December. Now, NotebookLM is accessible in over 200 countries and supports more than 108 languages.