Google Tests Audio Overviews in Search Results

Google Experiments with Audio Overviews in Search

Google Search is currently testing Audio Overviews for select search inquiries, as was announced by the company on Friday. This functionality was initially launched within NotebookLM, Google’s AI-powered tool designed for note-taking and research.

Leveraging Gemini Models

The technology company states that Audio Overviews will utilize its most recent Gemini models to provide users with an alternative method for processing and comprehending information.

According to Google, an audio overview serves to provide a quick understanding of a topic. It offers a convenient, hands-free approach to information absorption, particularly useful during multitasking or for those who prefer an auditory experience.

Availability and Features

This feature is being rolled out today within Labs, Google’s platform for experimental features. Users will be presented with the option to create a concise Audio Overview when Google’s systems determine it would be beneficial based on their specific search query.

Upon generating an Audio Overview, a streamlined audio player will appear. This player includes standard controls for play/pause, volume adjustment, and playback speed modification.

Source Transparency and User Feedback

Google will display links within the audio player, clearly indicating the sources of the information presented. Users can click these links to explore topics in greater detail following the audio presentation.

Feedback is actively encouraged; users can provide a thumbs-up or thumbs-down rating for each Audio Overview, as well as for the Labs experiment itself.

Evolution from NotebookLM and Gemini

Within NotebookLM, Audio Overviews empower users to create podcast-style content with AI-driven virtual hosts, based on uploaded documents like course materials or legal documents.

Audio Overviews were also integrated into Gemini in March. This expansion to Search builds upon the foundation of AI Overviews, the AI-generated summaries Google provides for certain searches.

Targeting Auditory Learners

With Audio Overviews, Google aims to cater to individuals who learn best through listening, as well as those seeking more accessible information formats.

Context of Recent Reports

This announcement arrives shortly after a report from the Wall Street Journal highlighted concerns that Google’s AI Overviews and other AI-powered tools are negatively impacting traffic to news publishers.