A few months ago, Google launched a feature called Audio Overviews in its NotebookLM note-taking app. This feature uses AI to create podcast-style summaries hosted by virtual AI presenters, based on information users share with the app.
Now, Google has introduced a new capability that lets users interact directly with these AI podcast hosts. The goal is to provide a more engaging way to understand the content of uploaded documents, such as academic readings or legal briefs.
With this update, users can ask the AI hosts follow-up questions or request alternative explanations for specific concepts. According to Google’s blog post, the feature functions like a personalized tutor, responding to queries based on the provided materials.
To use the interactive feature, users must first create a new Audio Overview, activate the “Interactive mode (BETA)” option, and start playback. They can then tap “Join” to ask a question, and the host will invite them to speak.
Google emphasizes that this is still an experimental feature. It currently only works with newly created Audio Overviews, and responses may occasionally be delayed or inaccurate.
Since Audio Overviews launched in September, users have generated content equivalent to more than 350 years of listening time.
In addition, NotebookLM is being redesigned with tools organized into three sections: Sources, Chat, and Studio. Google is also introducing a premium enterprise version called “NotebookLM Plus,” which offers additional features and benefits.