Google has introduced a new AI feature in its 'Labs' section that converts search queries into podcasts using its Gemini AI model. While the feature aims to provide hands-free audio overviews for multitaskers, critics question its necessity, expressing skepticism over the accuracy of AI-generated content. The initiative, initially part of Google's NotebookLM, has produced mixed results, with some AI enthusiasts enjoying its unique take on web information, but many others deeming it cumbersome and potentially misleading due to the AI's tendency to generate fictitious details.
But is this anything anybody really asked for? Having two fake podcast hosts rant about a subject you're researching - likely with a smattering of hallucinations - sounds like an incredibly counterintuitive and needlessly obtuse way to get quick access to information.
The opt-in feature - which currently lives inside Google's experimental 'Labs' section and has to be manually turned on - harnesses the power of the company's Gemini AI model to turn a search query into 'quick, conversational audio overviews.'
The feature first surfaced last year as part of Google's NotebookLM, a note-taking tool that uses AI to help users organize their thoughts and summarize notes.
While AI researchers have gushed over the feature, using it to turn Wikipedia pages into hours-long podcast episodes they allegedly listen to, we still can't shake the feeling that Google may be barking up the wrong tree.
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