Google Expands NotebookLM Audio Overviews to 76 New Languages with Custom Output Options

Google has significantly enhanced its AI-based note-taking and research assistant, NotebookLM, by expanding the availability of its Audio Overviews feature to 76 additional languages. Originally launched last year, Audio Overviews generate podcast-style summaries with AI virtual hosts based on documents users upload, such as course readings or legal briefs. This feature aims to provide users with an alternative, auditory method to digest and understand complex information.

Previously, Audio Overviews were generated only in the user’s account preferred language. The new update introduces an “Output Language” option, allowing users to select the language in which the audio summary is produced. This flexibility supports multilingual content creation and learning, enabling users to switch languages at any time.

For example, educators can compile resources in multiple languages—such as a Portuguese documentary, a Spanish research paper, and English study reports—and students can generate Audio Overviews in their preferred language. This capability enhances accessibility and comprehension for diverse learners.

The newly supported languages include a broad spectrum, such as Afrikaans, Arabic, Bengali, Catalan, Danish, German, Greek, Spanish variants, French variants, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese variants, Russian, Swedish, Tamil, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, Vietnamese, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), and many more. This extensive language support reflects Google’s commitment to making AI tools accessible worldwide.

Broader Implications and Opportunities

Google’s expansion of Audio Overviews to support multilingual output is a significant step toward democratizing access to AI-powered learning and research tools. It facilitates cross-cultural education, enables more inclusive knowledge sharing, and supports global collaboration. For professionals, students, and educators, this means easier access to synthesized information in their native or preferred languages, improving retention and engagement.

Moreover, the ability to generate multilingual audio summaries can aid in language learning, content localization, and accessibility for users with visual impairments or reading difficulties. This feature exemplifies how AI can bridge language barriers and enhance user experience across diverse demographics.

Integrating AI Audio Summaries into Workflows

Organizations can leverage this technology to streamline information dissemination and training. For example, multinational companies can create consistent training materials accessible in employees’ native languages, while academic institutions can support diverse student populations with tailored study aids.

The flexibility to switch output languages on demand also encourages dynamic content repurposing, making it easier to update and adapt materials for different audiences without recreating content from scratch.

As AI continues to evolve, features like Google’s Audio Overviews set a precedent for how intelligent assistants can enhance productivity and learning by making information more accessible, engaging, and personalized.