Google is initiating a new experiment that showcases AI-driven Audio Overviews prominently on the first page of mobile search results. This feature, currently in a testing phase, can be activated through the Labs section and aims to provide users with a podcast-like discussion format for specific search queries.
For instance, if you search for a query such as, “How do noise cancellation headphones work?”, a button reading “Generate Audio Overview” will be presented below the “People also ask” section on the page. Users will need to click this button, after which Google indicates that the overview may take up to 40 seconds to generate.
Once the Audio Overview is prepared, it will be displayed in a compact audio player embedded within the search results. This player allows users to play, pause, mute, and modify the playback speed of the audio clip. Similar to other features like Audio Overviews on NotebookLM and Gemini, the new offering includes two AI-generated hosts engaging in an animated discussion about the chosen topic. Links to sources referenced in the Audio Overview will also be available directly below the playback controls.
Currently, Audio Overviews in Search are limited to English and accessible only in the United States. Since its launch last year, Google has been incorporating Audio Overviews into a variety of settings, allowing users to create audio discussions derived from notes, extensive research from Gemini, Google Docs files, and more.
