Google NotebookLM adds an improved audio overview and background listening feature

Google’s NotebookLM software primarily deals with audio overview. For the uninitiated, the platform’s Audio Preview tool uses AI to compile an audio summary of a piece of content. It started with written content, but since then.

So what’s new? Users can now enter specific instructions before performing a “Deep Dive” overview. Google provides examples of positioning software work to focus on a single topic or adjusting the level of expertise to suit a specific audience. The company says it’s like “smoothly AI handles a quick note right before it goes live.”

There’s also a new background listening feature, which is how it sounds. People can listen to audio snippets as they do other things within NotebookLM. Google says users can query sources, find citations and check relevant quotes “without interrupting the audio.”

It’s also worth noting that the company has removed the “experimental” label from NotebookLM, so I think the experiment was a resounding success. In any case, the software is back in December.

The company even announced an upcoming expansion aimed at commercial use, . This will include “improved features for businesses, universities and organizations.” Businesses can apply today for early access to the pilot program.