NotebookLM just arrived on Android — and it can turn your notes into podcasts
Level up your note-taking

NotebookLM, Google’s AI-powered research assistant, just launched as a mobile app for Android after months as a desktop-only experiment. Now, you can access its smartest features — source-grounded summaries, Q&A, and even “idea synthesis” — straight from your phone.
Deeply integrated with Google Drive, users can upload PDFs, import Docs, or type directly into the app, then ask NotebookLM to explain, summarize, or connect ideas across their documents.
Like having a personal research assistant in your pocket, the AI cites its sources and keeps all your research in one place to support whatever.
Why NotebookLM stands out
NotebookLM stands out for its ability to process complex information and deliver thoughtful, source-backed responses.
Whether summarizing research, asking questions, or generating content like a podcast script, it stays grounded in the material you provide. It can also surface connections across documents that might not be obvious at first glance.
The tool supports various needs — from academic research and work presentations to personal learning.
Key features
- Summarize long PDFs
- Q&A based solely on your files (e.g., “What were the key points from my meeting notes last week?”)
- Compare two documents side by side
- Brainstorm ideas using your research as a foundation
- Revisit past conversations (supportive for long-term projects)
Who should use it?
NotebookLM is designed to work in two key ways. First, it reads and understands the documents you upload — PDFs, Google Docs, or notes.
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Second, it acts as an intelligent assistant. You can ask questions about your content, request summaries of lengthy materials, or dive deeper into specific topics.
It is a helpful research assistant for:
- Students drowning in research papers
- Journalists sifting through interviews
- Professionals organizing meeting notes
- Writers connecting scattered ideas
- Anyone who’s ever forgotten what’s buried in their Google Drive
How to get it
Available now on the Google Play Store (still labeled “experimental”). Users need a Google account and Drive access. It is currently free for now.
The bottom line
NotebookLM is part of Google’s growing lineup of AI tools. This one acts as a smart, personalized assistant for your research projects.
If you’ve ever wished you could ask your notes a question and actually get a helpful answer, this might be the app that finally makes it possible.
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Amanda Caswell is an award-winning journalist, bestselling YA author, and one of today’s leading voices in AI and technology. A celebrated contributor to various news outlets, her sharp insights and relatable storytelling have earned her a loyal readership. Amanda’s work has been recognized with prestigious honors, including outstanding contribution to media.
Known for her ability to bring clarity to even the most complex topics, Amanda seamlessly blends innovation and creativity, inspiring readers to embrace the power of AI and emerging technologies. As a certified prompt engineer, she continues to push the boundaries of how humans and AI can work together.
Beyond her journalism career, Amanda is a bestselling author of science fiction books for young readers, where she channels her passion for storytelling into inspiring the next generation. A long-distance runner and mom of three, Amanda’s writing reflects her authenticity, natural curiosity, and heartfelt connection to everyday life — making her not just a journalist, but a trusted guide in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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