Huxe: Audio News & Research App by Former NotebookLM Developers

A New Audio-Focused App Emerges from Former NotebookLM Developers

Google’s NotebookLM, an AI-powered note-taking and research tool, garnered significant attention upon its release. Its capabilities, including rapid summarization and the creation of AI-hosted “podcasts” from documents, resonated with users seeking enhanced research assistance.

Building on this success, a team of three developers instrumental in NotebookLM’s development have launched Huxe, an audio-centric application. This new app aims to facilitate in-depth exploration of various subjects through AI-generated podcast-style discussions.

Seed Funding and Initial Launch

The startup announced on Tuesday that it secured $4.6 million in funding. Investors include Conviction, Genius Ventures, Dylan Field (CEO of Figma), and Jeff Dean, chief scientist at Google Research.

Initially released on an invite-only basis in June, Huxe is now broadly accessible on both iOS and Android platforms.

From B2B Chatbot to Personalized Audio Assistant

Raiza Martin, alongside Jason Spielman and Stephen Hughes, departed Google in December 2024 to pursue independent ventures.

Their initial project was a chatbot geared towards business-to-business applications. However, they pivoted to the consumer market, developing a personal assistant in March 2025 capable of generating customized images, videos, and audio content.

“We discovered a strong user preference for audio generation across diverse topics during this period,” Martin explained to TechCrunch. “Furthermore, we noticed users frequently utilized the app during specific routines, such as preparing for the day or catching up on news.”

This observation prompted the team to concentrate on audio-based experiences, ultimately leading to the creation of Huxe.

How Huxe Functions

Huxe delivers a personalized daily briefing based on your email inbox and calendar schedule. It also allows users to investigate specific topics.

Similar to NotebookLM, the app generates a podcast featuring AI hosts discussing the chosen subject. Users can engage with these AI hosts, posing questions or requesting alternative explanations.

A key differentiator is Huxe’s ability to create “live stations” dedicated to topics like technology news, sports, or entertainment. The app provides updates from various sources after listening, aiding in tracking evolving stories.

Additionally, a personalized interest feed automatically curates audio content tailored to your preferences.

User Feedback and Potential Applications

Martin noted that NotebookLM benefited from valuable feedback from a dedicated group of power users. Huxe is currently experiencing a similar pattern of engagement.

“The app is particularly well-suited for individuals who spend considerable time in front of screens, managing numerous browser tabs,” she stated. “It offers a way to stay informed about emails, schedules, and news without constant screen interaction.”

While currently focused on information delivery, Huxe also holds potential for entertainment applications. Companies in India, such as Pocket FM and Kuku FM, are already utilizing AI to facilitate user-generated audio content.

Huxe is not alone in exploring audio as a medium; startups like ElevenLabs and Oboe, alongside tech giants Google and Meta, are also investing in audio-based technologies.