New Google AI tech creates realistic podcasts from your notes

Illustration: TBS

Google has introduced a new feature in its NotebookLM AI note-taking application that enables users to convert their notes into AI-generated podcasts. 

This feature, which Google refers to as an experimental tool, includes two virtual hosts that summarise the notes, draw connections between topics, and engage in conversational exchanges.

The new feature is designed to build on NotebookLM's existing capabilities, which facilitate interaction with notes, transcripts, and research documents.

Previously, the app, powered by Google's Gemini AI model, summarised research in text form; this new addition provides an audio version, enhancing the summarisation process with conversational elements.

Google says that the AI-generated discussions are based solely on the user's sources and should not be seen as a complete or objective perspective on the topic. 

As the feature is still experimental, it may have limitations, such as slower generation times for large notebooks and potential inaccuracies.

According to Android Authority, the AI hosts currently support Audio Overviews exclusively in English, and users cannot interrupt them during their discussions. Despite these limitations, the generated discussions are remarkably realistic and could easily be mistaken for actual podcasts.

To test it out, visit the NotebookLM website and use the tool with your own notes. The tool currently supports pdf, txt and Markdown files.