Google has introduced a new customization tool for its viral AI podcasts within the NotebookLM software. An individual who gained early access to this feature tested it by using Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis as the source material. They spent several hours creating podcasts about the novella, ranging from conventional to more unconventional discussions.
NotebookLM, launched by Google Labs in 2023 as an experimental AI-driven writing tool, has witnessed renewed user interest since early September. This resurgence is attributed to the introduction of a feature that allows the generation of podcast-like conversations between two AI voices from uploaded documents. These audio "deep dives" can be used for educational and productive purposes; however, many viral clips online emphasize the entertainment aspect of having AI hosts discuss unusual or personal documents, such as a LinkedIn profile.
Raiza Martin, leader of the NotebookLM team at Google Labs, expressed enthusiasm about offering users more control over the content of these AI-generated podcasts. She noted that user feedback consistently requested this feature, allowing them to influence the focus of the deep dives. Martin indicated this is the first of several planned updates.
Approaching the one-year anniversary of its full launch, NotebookLM is shedding its "experimental" label, suggesting it may avoid joining other discontinued Google software efforts. According to Martin, this change reflects the team’s success in achieving internal metrics related to quality, user retention, and interface standards, and users can now anticipate a higher level of stability from the software.
To create an AI podcast using NotebookLM, users can navigate to the Google Labs website and start a new notebook, uploading any desired source documents. These sources can include personal files or YouTube links. Users will see an option to generate a deep dive with the additional ability to customize it. The software recommends specifying which sections of the source material should be highlighted or broader topics of interest, as well as identifying the intended audience.
Martin provided a tip for utilizing the new feature: initially generate the Audio Overview without any customization. While listening to this version, users can note any questions or topics they wish to explore further. These notes can then guide the creation of prompts to tailor the AI podcast.
When the testing individual uploaded an 80-page file of Kafka’s existential text to explore the customization process for NotebookLM users, the initial Audio Overview offered a comprehensive yet general summary of the novella’s plot and themes. While not groundbreaking, it was deemed adequate.
With a focus reminiscent of a college English major, they adjusted the prompt to emphasize themes of alienation and overbearing bureaucracy present in the book. This adjustment resulted in an engaging discussion akin to college classroom discourse. Though slightly meandering, it remained largely engaging and coherent.