Google is rolling out a significant update to NotebookLM, its AI-powered research assistant, that introduces new conversational formats for its Audio Overviews feature. Users can now have the AI generate podcast-style summaries of their documents as a “Debate,” “Critique,” or a quick “Brief,” moving beyond the standard in-depth summary and adding new, dynamic ways to interact with source material.
The update, announced by Google and rolling out to all users this week, expands on the original “Deep Dive” format. The new “Debate” option features two AI hosts presenting different perspectives on the user’s sources, while “Critique” provides an expert review with constructive feedback. For users short on time, the “Brief” format delivers a bite-sized overview that is typically one to two minutes long. Alongside the new formats, Google is also adding a highly requested feature: new AI voices for the podcasts.
This enhancement is the latest in a series of rapid developments for the Gemini-powered research assistant. In recent months, Google has also added Video Overviews that turn notes into visual presentations and launched standalone NotebookLM apps for Android and iOS.
The update also follows a recent expansion of its audio capabilities to a global audience. Google recently improved its non-English Audio Overviews in over 80 languages to be more comprehensive, mirroring the detailed experience previously available only in the English version. The new audio formats will be available in all supported languages.
