Just Press Play: Google Is Turning Some Search Results Into AI Podcasts

Google is testing a new way to deliver AI-generated search results by turning them into “quick, conversational audio overviews for certain search queries.” Basically, AI podcasts.

The test seems to merge Google’s AI-powered search summaries, also known as AI Overviews, with the company’s NotebookLM, an online tool that can create audio podcasts featuring two AI hosts who dissect uploaded documents.

(Credit: Google)

The test is part of Google Labs, where the search giant tests new AI projects. The company created the experiment for users who might be busy multi-tasking or who prefer to receive search results in an audio format. Interested users can access the feature by opting into the test. 

“When our systems determine it might be useful, you’ll see the option on the search results page to tap to generate a short audio overview on the topic of your query. You can give a thumbs up/down on each discussion, and the experiment as a whole in Labs,” the company explained. 

(Credit: Google)

The feature, called “Search Labs | Audio Overview,” takes up to 40 seconds to work since it requires Google’s Gemini model to research the search query by analyzing various third-party websites. Once done, it will generate a transcript; press play to hear it read out loud by two AI-generated hosts. The player will feature volume and playback speed adjusters.

Google says the generated clip will cite its sources. Time will tell if the feature takes off. But the company has been integrating more AI into its traditional search business, saying it’s seen an over 10% increase “in usage of Google for the types of queries that show AI Overviews.”

Still, the AI integration arrives amid growing concern that Google is elevating its own AI-powered search results over linking to third-party websites, taking traffic away from the very sources of information it relies on to generate those answers. Users have also spotted Google’s AI search summaries spreading incorrect information.

5 Ways to Get More Out of Your ChatGPT Conversations

About Michael Kan

Senior Reporter

I’ve been working as a journalist for over 15 years—I got my start as a schools and cities reporter in Kansas City and joined PCMag in 2017.

Read Michael’s full bio

Read the latest from Michael Kan