Google Experiments with AI-Powered Audio Overviews in Search Results
Google is currently testing a new experimental feature called Audio Overviews in its Search Labs program, designed to deliver podcast-style AI audio responses to certain search queries. This innovation, powered by one of Google’s Gemini AI models, aims to offer users an engaging, hands-free way to learn about unfamiliar topics directly from search results.
What Are Audio Overviews?
Audio Overviews create short, human-like audio conversations between two AI-generated hosts who discuss various elements of a topic—much like a mini podcast. The feature is meant to provide informative summaries in a conversational format, helping users grasp complex topics while multitasking.
How It Works
According to a blog post from Google, Audio Overviews will appear automatically when the system identifies that an audio explanation would enhance the search experience. For now, access is limited to a select group of users enrolled in Search Labs, and the feature is likely only available via the Google app.
When a supported query is entered, users may see a “Search Labs | Audio Overviews” section within the search results. This section includes a simple media player with controls for play/pause, volume, playback speed, and a progress bar. Below the audio player, Google also lists the number of web sources used to generate the overview and provides clickable links to those pages for further reading.
Previous Rollouts and Expansions
This AI audio feature first appeared last year in NotebookLM, Google’s AI-powered note-taking tool. It was later added to the Gemini app, and is now expanding into Google Search as part of the company’s continued push to integrate AI-driven tools across its services.
User Feedback Encouraged
Users can give feedback by liking or disliking individual Audio Overviews. They can also submit feedback on the entire feature through Search Labs, helping Google refine the experience before a wider rollout.