On Friday, Google unveiled an experimental artificial intelligence feature within its Search Labs, named Audio Overviews. This new tool creates succinct, podcast-style audio discussions in response to specific search inquiries. According to the tech company based in Mountain View, California, the Audio Overviews feature is powered by one of its Gemini models and will automatically activate in search instances where it deems beneficial. Currently, access to this feature is limited to a select group of users since it is still in the experimental phase.
Audio Overviews Set to Enhance Search Results
In a recent blog entry, Google informed users about the launch of Audio Overviews as part of its Search Labs initiative. To experiment with this feature, users must first enroll in Labs, followed by activating the function. Reports indicate that the feature might currently be available only to a limited set of users, as staff from Gadgets 360 were unable to locate it. It’s also suggested that access may be restricted to the Google app.
The concept of Audio Overviews was initially rolled out last year through NotebookLM, an AI-driven note-taking application. This feature generates an audio dialogue between two AI hosts, simulating a podcast format, where they discuss various aspects of a given topic in a conversational tone.
Following its introduction in NotebookLM, the feature recently made its way into the Gemini app. With this latest expansion, Audio Overviews will now provide concise audio discussions related to certain results within Google Search. The feature is portrayed as a hands-free way to explore unknown subjects while managing other tasks.
Audio Overviews in Search results
Photo Credit: Google
According to a screenshot shared by the company, when an eligible user conducts a search that supports audio discussions, they will encounter a designated option titled “Search Labs | Audio Overviews.” This section will include a basic media player equipped with controls for play/pause, volume adjustment, a progress bar, and audio speed settings.
Below the media player, users will find information about the number of websites that contributed to the creation of the Audio Overview, along with a list of specific pages. Google allows users to click on these links for further insights into the topic.
Users can also provide feedback on their experience by rating each audio discussion with thumbs up or down, and they have the option to offer feedback on the overall experiment through Search Labs.
