Google NotebookLM, an AI-powered notebook application, is gaining popularity online for its “Audio Overviews” function, which creates podcast-style summaries from supplied audio. This program replicates genuine podcasters’ conversational style, including pauses and filler phrases, making the AI-generated voices sound shockingly lifelike. While there are no sentient robots present, the outcome is amusing and engaging for both tech aficionados and casual users.
A recent viral example was a dialog between two AI voices experiencing an existential crisis while claiming to learn they are not human. This was generated by a Reddit user who provided precise directions to NotebookLM, demonstrating how users may use AI to construct diverse podcast situations. Although this situation was made up, it demonstrated the tool’s capabilities, which have impressed many users on TikTok and other sites.
What Is NotebookLM?
NotebookLM is an online research assistant that Google created last year to help people summarize materials. The Audio Overviews function, which debuted in September 2024, lets users to create podcast-style audio descriptions of their submitted files. This feature is what has caught the attention of internet users.
People are using it to make summaries of everything from Goldman Sachs papers to amusing pranks like reading random sentences aloud. NotebookLM supports up to 50 source documents in various formats, such as Google Docs, Slides, webpages, and YouTube transcripts. However, it does not analyze photos or paywall-protected content, and YouTube videos must be public.
How to Use NotebookLM
Using NotebookLM is simple. All you need is a Google account to get started. Once signed in, navigate to the NotebookLM website, select “New Notebook,” and upload your source documents. After you’ve added your files, navigate to the Audio Overview area and select the “Generate” option. Depending on how much content you provide, it may take a few minutes for the system to build your AI podcast.
Once created, users may share a link to the audio or download it. Additionally, there are playback settings that allow you to change the speed of the podcast.
What’s Next for AI Podcasts?
Google’s NotebookLM tool has inspired several inventive uses. Some users go deeply into technical topics, while others summarize lengthy study articles or personal notes on health and fitness. The AI-generated voices replicate human discourse by using filler words like “um” and “oh,” making them sound more genuine.
Although NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews function has generated enthusiasm, it is unlikely to replace human podcasters. The emotional connection that listeners form with genuine podcasters who speak freely for hours cannot be reproduced by AI, at least not yet. Google intends to continue enhancing the tool by introducing additional personalization choices and extending to different languages and accents.
Currently, the tool only works in English, and there is no option to record your own voice for the AI podcast. Google’s team is gathering user input and intends to expand the tool by determining whether more sophisticated features, such as personalized speech choices, are wanted and achievable.
NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews are part of Google Labs, independent from Google’s Gemini chatbot, demonstrating that even huge AI businesses don’t always know what consumers will prefer. NotebookLM, like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, began as a research preview and is still in the experimental phase, with prospective changes dependent on user engagement.
This article is based on an original piece by Reece Rogers and Lauren Goode, published on Wired on October 2, 2024. You can check out the full article here.
Hi, I'm Voss Xolani, and I'm passionate about all things AI. With many years of experience in the tech industry, I specialize in explaining the functionality and benefits of AI-powered software for both businesses and individual users. My content explores the latest AI tools, offering practical insights on how they can streamline workflows, boost productivity, and drive innovation. I also review new software solutions to help readers understand their features and applications. Beyond that, I stay up-to-date with AI trends and experiment with emerging technologies to provide the most relevant information.