What Is NotebookLM?
NotebookLM is a free Google tool that lets you upload documents (PDF files, website links, YouTube videos) and ask questions about them. Its most special feature: it can turn your documents into a recorded podcast.
The Special Feature: AI Podcast
This is what makes NotebookLM unique:
- You upload a document (for example, a medicine leaflet, a letter from your insurance, a long article)
- You click "Audio Overview"
- Within a few minutes, two AI "hosts" create a conversation about the document
- The result: a 5-15 minute audio file that explains the content in a natural, conversational way
What Does It Sound Like?
Surprisingly natural. The two hosts talk enthusiastically, ask each other questions, explain concepts, and summarize key points. They use natural pauses, reactions like "Oh, that is interesting!", and make the content feel accessible and easy to follow. It sounds like a real podcast.
How to Use It
- Go to notebooklm.google.com and sign in with your Google account.
- Click Create new to start a new notebook.
- Add sources: upload a PDF, paste a website link, a YouTube link, or text. You can add up to 50 sources.
- In the "Studio" section, click Audio Overview.
- Optionally add instructions: "Focus on the side effects" or "Explain it simply."
- Click Generate and wait a few minutes.
- Listen to the podcast on the website or download the audio file.
What Can You Upload?
- A medicine leaflet, then ask "What are the side effects?"
- A letter from an insurance company, then ask "What are they asking me to do?"
- A long article, and get a 5-minute spoken summary
- A YouTube video link, and get a summary of what was said
Things to Know
- The podcast is generated in English only for now. You can upload sources in other languages, but the audio conversation will be in English
- There is no phone app yet. It works through the web browser (also on your phone)
- It is free for basic use (requires a Google account)
- Great for people who prefer listening over reading