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Google's AI-powered research assistant NotebookLM is expanding beyond desktop with dedicated mobile apps for Android and iOS, set to launch on May 20, 2025, coinciding with Google I/O 2025.
Key Takeaways
- NotebookLM apps for Android and iOS are available for preorder now, with official release scheduled for May 20, 2025
- The mobile expansion brings NotebookLM's AI research capabilities to smartphones and tablets after being desktop-only since 2023
- Audio Overviews now support over 50 languages, from Hindi to Swahili, making content accessible regardless of source language
- Tablet users will enjoy enhanced multitasking features with a three-panel layout optimized for larger screens
- NotebookLM Plus offers premium features including larger context windows (up to 150 million words) and higher usage limits for professionals
Mobile Apps Bring AI Research On-The-Go
Google's NotebookLM, the AI-powered note-taking and research assistant that launched in 2023, is finally going mobile. Until now, the platform has only been accessible via desktop, limiting its utility for users who need research capabilities while away from their computers. The upcoming apps, which are currently available for preorder on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, will automatically download to users' devices on the release date.
The timing of the release is strategic, coinciding with the first day of Google I/O 2025, where Google is expected to provide more details about the app's capabilities and potential upgrades to the platform. This suggests that NotebookLM will be a significant focus at Google's annual developer conference.
Screenshots from the app listings reveal that users will be able to create new notebooks and access previously established ones directly from their mobile devices. The mobile apps will also allow users to upload new resources from their devices and view previously uploaded materials within each notebook. Additionally, users will be able to listen to Audio Overviews while on the move, making it easier to digest complex information during commutes or other downtime.
Multilingual Audio Overviews Break Language Barriers
One of NotebookLM's most significant recent updates is the expansion of its Audio Overviews feature to support more than 50 languages. This feature, which transforms sources into engaging, podcast-like conversations, was already popular when it launched late last year. Now, thanks to Gemini's native audio support, users can access Audio Overviews in languages ranging from Afrikaans to Hindi to Turkish.
The multilingual capability introduces a new "Output Language" option in NotebookLM's settings, allowing users to generate Audio Overviews in their preferred language regardless of the source material's original language. This makes it easy to create multilingual content or study materials as needed.
For example, a teacher preparing a lesson on the Amazon rainforest can share resources in various languages-like a Portuguese documentary, a Spanish research paper, and English study reports-with their students. The students can then generate an Audio Overview of key insights in their preferred language, breaking down language barriers and making information more accessible.
This feature is particularly valuable in educational settings, where it can help students and researchers work with materials in languages they might not be fluent in. It also opens up NotebookLM to a much broader global audience, as the service is now available in more than 200 countries.
Enhanced Tablet Experience with Multitasking Features
While the mobile apps will bring NotebookLM to smartphones, the platform will also be optimized for larger screens such as iPads and Android tablets. On these devices, users will be able to multitask more efficiently, easily switching between notebooks, documents, and several applications.
The tablet version appears to maintain NotebookLM's streamlined three-panel interface, which comprises sources, chat, and studio panels. This layout allows users to navigate between tasks effortlessly, with inline citations linking directly to source material to ensure transparency and accuracy. The notes section lets users save key insights for future reference, making it easier to revisit important information.
This intuitive design minimizes distractions and keeps users on track, which is particularly beneficial for those managing multiple tasks. By prioritizing organization and usability, NotebookLM enables users to work smarter and more effectively, whether they're conducting research, preparing for a meeting, or managing a project.
NotebookLM Plus: Advanced Features for Professionals
For users with more demanding needs, NotebookLM Plus offers a premium version with enhanced capabilities. This includes a larger context window of up to 150 million words (compared to the standard 25 million), higher usage limits, and customizable chat modes. These advanced features are ideal for professional and organizational use, allowing collaborative workflows through shared notebooks and tailored tools.
The premium version enables teams to work together more effectively. For example, a marketing team can collectively analyze campaign data, ensuring alignment and informed decision-making. Similarly, project managers can use the platform to coordinate complex initiatives, using its expanded capabilities to streamline communication and analysis.
With its robust feature set, NotebookLM Plus is designed for professionals who require advanced tools to manage intricate projects and workflows effectively. As Google continues to expand its AI push throughout productivity tools, the NotebookLM mobile apps may very well be a preview of what's in store for Docs, Drive, and other Workspace services.
The Future of AI-Assisted Research and Learning
As Google continues to refine NotebookLM based on user feedback, the platform is poised to become an essential tool for students, researchers, and professionals who need to understand and work with complex information. The combination of AI-powered summaries, multilingual support, and now mobile accessibility makes NotebookLM more versatile and useful than ever before.
With mobility and context-aware tools becoming the norm within our workflows, artificial intelligence is becoming more embedded in how we work and learn. If Google plays it right, NotebookLM could evolve into an indispensable AI assistant for knowledge workers across various fields.
The official launch on May 20 will likely reveal additional features and improvements, so those interested in AI-powered research tools should mark their calendars for Google I/O 2025.
