Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence feature in NotebookLM designed to enhance users’ comprehension of intricate subjects. On Tuesday, the tech company from Mountain View announced the launch of Video Overviews, a tool that generates visual narratives based on content from various sources. This feature is intended to complement the existing Audio Overviews capability, particularly in instances where visual breakdowns can significantly aid understanding.
Google NotebookLM Can Now Generate Visual Slides
In a recent blog post, Google elaborated on the functionality of the new Video Overviews feature within NotebookLM. Part of the platform’s Studio outputs, this new format features narrated slides. Originally unveiled during the Google I/O 2025 event, the feature is now available to all NotebookLM users, including those utilizing the free version.
Video Overviews in NotebookLM
Testers from Gadgets 360 had the opportunity to experience the feature firsthand. The Video Overviews tool generates a series of static visual slides reminiscent of a PowerPoint presentation. These slides incorporate diagrams, emojis, text, graphs, and tables, along with pertinent quotes from the sources when applicable. Each slideshow is accompanied by AI-generated narration delivered by a female voice, which currently does not offer voice customization options.
Feedback from testers indicated that while the tool performed its intended function, the narration was somewhat generalized and overlooked key details, a shortcoming that was better addressed in the Audio Overviews format.
Google highlighted the usefulness of Video Overviews in clarifying information-heavy subjects that contain extensive data, outline processes, and simplify abstract ideas. This new format allows users to specify focal topics, establish learning objectives, and define target audiences for their presentations.
In addition to the new Video Overviews feature, Google is also revamping the Studio panel that includes Audio and Video Overviews, Mind Map, and Reports. The redesign introduces four prominent tiles on the right side of the interface for easy access to these features. Any content produced with these tools will be listed underneath, enabling users to multitask effectively—such as viewing a Mind Map while listening to an Audio Overview.
Moreover, the previous limitation allowing only a single output per tool in a notebook has been lifted. Users can now create and store multiple outputs of the same type within a single notebook, adding flexibility to the way they utilize the platform.
