In an exciting development from Google, the company is officially rolling out a groundbreaking feature for its popular NotebookLM and its podcast-style Audio Overviews—users will now be able to interact directly with AI "hosts." This new capability is turning heads and could reshape how we gather and engage with information.

How to Dive into this Innovative Feature

Here’s how to dive into this innovative feature when it becomes available to you:

1. Create a New Audio Overview

To start this interactive journey, you’ll need to create a fresh Audio Overview; the new feature only works with the latest content.

2. Activate Interactive Mode (BETA)

Tap the newly introduced Interactive mode button to activate it.

3. Join the Conversation

While enjoying the Audio Overview, simply tap "Join." An AI host will call upon you to engage.

4. Pose Your Questions

Feel free to ask your question! The hosts are programmed to provide personalized responses that draw from the sources you’ve compiled.

5. Continue the Overview

After addressing your query, the conversation seamlessly transitions back to the original Audio Overview.

While this interactive engagement is poised to enhance the learning experience, Google advises users to keep expectations in check. The feature is still in its experimental stage, and users may encounter awkward pauses or occasional inaccuracies in responses.

Redesigning the NotebookLM Interface

In addition to the new talking hosts, Google is redesigning the NotebookLM interface. It will now feature three distinct areas to streamline your experience: a *"sources"* panel for easy content access, a *"chat"* panel for dialogue with an AI chatbot about your sources, and a *"studio"* panel for creating materials like Audio Overviews and Study Guides.

NotebookLM Plus

But that’s not all! Google is also launching a subscription service called NotebookLM Plus. This upgrade promises to enhance your productivity dramatically, offering "five times more Audio Overviews, notebooks, and sources per notebook," along with customization options for your notebook's style and tone. Plus, you can create shared team notebooks and enjoy heightened privacy and security measures. The subscription is currently available for businesses, educational institutions, and large organizations, with plans to integrate it into Google One AI Premium in early 2025.

Introducing Agentspace

Adding to this wave of innovations, Google is set to introduce "Agentspace," a novel platform designed for bespoke AI agents tailored for enterprises. Agentspace aims to offer conversational assistance, address complex queries, and even make proactive suggestions, all based on the unique data of your organization. It will also feature integrations with popular applications like Microsoft SharePoint, Jira, and ServiceNow.

The implications of these advancements are vast—improving how we learn, collaborate, and interact with technology. Prepare to transform your information experience with Google’s NotebookLM and its exciting new features!