NotebookLM Update Lets Users Direct AI Podcast Discussions: A Fresh Way to Engage with Content
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New Features to Make AI Conversations More Human-like
Google’s NotebookLM has just become even more exciting. They’ve introduced a new “Customize” button, allowing users to guide their AI-generated Audio Overviews with more precision. Imagine being able to control exactly what your AI-generated podcast discusses, choosing the topics that matter most to you.
This update is a big step forward from where NotebookLM was when it first launched the Audio Overview feature on September 11. Back then, it allowed users to listen to AI hosts summarize content, but it felt a bit like watching from the sidelines. The conversations, powered by the Gemini 1.5 model, were impressive, but there was no way for users to jump in and steer the dialogue. That all changes with this new feature.
NotebookLM now allows you to craft realistic 10-minute podcast-like discussions that summarize anything from documents to videos. And thanks to this latest update, users can upload audio files or YouTube URLs, making it easier to summarize videos and turn them into meaningful conversations.
Listening to Users: The Push for Personalization
Before the "Customize" button came along, the tool converted text, audio, or video into lifelike conversations between two AI hosts, but the dialogue wasn't customizable. Users gave feedback that they wanted more control over the discussions. They wanted the AI hosts to focus on specific topics within their content. It’s like having a conversation but wishing you could guide it toward what matters most to you.
Raiza Martin, the product lead at Google for NotebookLM, shared that this feedback played a big role in shaping the update. Users wanted to feel more in control, and now they can. With this new feature, you can guide the AI to emphasize certain subjects or adjust the tone and expertise level based on your needs.
How to Use the New "Customize" Feature
To use this feature, create a new notebook and add at least one source. After that, click “Notebook guide” and hit the “Customize” button. Here, you can give instructions to the AI hosts about what you’d like them to focus on or what tone to take. Whether you want a deep dive into a particular topic or a general overview, NotebookLM will generate the conversation based on your input.input.
It’s important to remember, though, that these Audio Overviews aren’t designed to be fully comprehensive or objective. They’re a reflection of the material you’ve uploaded and the instructions you provide. In a way, it’s like shaping a conversation with a friend—what you get out of it depends on what you put in.
Business Edition and What’s Next for NotebookLM
Google also announced that it plans to release a paid business version of NotebookLM with enhanced features, perfect for users who need more advanced tools. They’ve invited users to request early access to a pilot program, with more details on the cost and features expected later this year.
The journey for NotebookLM has been a fast one. With millions of users now engaging with it, the platform has officially dropped its “Experimental” label, just as it approaches the one-year mark since its full launch. It’s clear that NotebookLM is evolving quickly, and this latest update shows that Google is listening to its users and aiming to make the experience even more personalized and engaging.
Final Thoughts: More Human, More Personalized
NotebookLM’s new features make it feel more human, allowing users to shape the content in ways that feel personal and relevant. Whether you're summarizing videos or creating AI-generated podcasts, the ability to guide those conversations is a game-changer. As we head into the future, NotebookLM is proving that AI can not only assist us but also adapt to our needs in more meaningful ways.
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