Google's AI podcast generator just got more customizable, and I put it to the test

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NotebookLM, Google's experimental AI-first notebook and research assistant, has gone viral for its Audio Overview feature, which transforms a user's material into a podcast. The feature just got an upgrade to fine-tune the experience, and I put it to the test. 

The new features allow users to quickly instruct the two AI podcast hosts on the topics they want them to discuss. For example, if you upload a large document, you can instruct AI Overviews to make the podcast focus on only one section instead of the entire thing. 

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To test out the technology, after I signed in, I started a new notebook and uploaded a PDF of my best AI image generator roundup for ZDNET. I have been curating the list for over two years and making it as comprehensive as possible, so it's a massive document. 

Then, I dropped the PDF into the "Add sources to get started" box and immediately discovered the materials AI could generate, including a FAQ, Study Guide, Table of Contents, Timeline, Briefing Doc, and Audio Overview. 

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In Audio Overview, there are now two options: Customize and Generate. To test its ability to zero in on a topic, I clicked on "Customize", where I could enter specific instructions. Google gives you suggestions for the type of customization prompts you can include, such as "Focus on a specific source", "Focus on a specific topic", and "Target a specific audience". 

I typed, "Can you focus on the best image generator overall?" Within minutes, it generated a seven-minute podcast episode where both AI hosts chatted through my best pics for AI generators, summarizing all my points and suggesting why each generator got the best pick. You can listen to two of those minutes below: 

The most important part is that the tool stuck to the instructions, only talking about the best AI image generators and ignoring all the other information in the articles, such as the FAQs, which provide more background knowledge and less information about the actual selections. I can see this focus being useful if you upload a big file with all your class notes or a lengthy research paper and want to use the AI Overview to concentrate on a specific section. 

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As a bonus, Google has added background listening to the platform, allowing users to listen to Audio Overviews while continuing to work within NotebookLM. 

The tool is free and easy to use if you want to try any of these features. Visit the NotebookLM website, sign in to your Google account, and follow the steps above. 

Businesses interested in using the tool with advanced business measures can apply for early access to the NotebookLM Business pilot program.