Google’s Audio Overviews: The Next Steps to an Auditory Search World

The technology giant Google has revealed that it is currently experimenting with an innovative feature called Audio Overviews for certain search queries. This new option, originating from NotebookLM, Google's AI-based note-taking and research assistant, utilizes advanced Gemini models to offer users a fresh way of consuming information. According to Google, the aim is to provide a user-friendly, hands-free method that is ideal especially for multitasking or for those who prefer auditory experiences of information. Starting today, the feature is available in Google's "Labs" program, known for the company's innovative experiments. Users have the option to generate a short audio overview when Google thinks it might be helpful based on the specific query. The provided audio player offers simple control options such as play/pause buttons, volume control, and the ability to adjust playback speed. Interestingly, Google also displays links in the player that lead to the sources of the information for deeper insight if desired. Users can rate not only the Audio Overview but the entire experiment by giving thumbs-up or thumbs-down feedback. In NotebookLM, Audio Overviews provide the opportunity to create a podcast with virtual AI hosts based on the supplied documents, such as course materials or legal briefs. In March, Google introduced this feature into Gemini, further enhancing its significance. Inevitably, this innovation is stirring conversation, particularly in the context of a recent Wall Street Journal report which highlighted that Google's AI Overviews and other AI-powered tools have significantly reduced traffic for news publishers.