Google has developed three distinct AI tools—NotebookLM, Audio Overviews, and Illuminate—to help users absorb complex information more efficiently. Each tool serves a unique purpose:
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NotebookLM functions as an interactive research notebook, allowing users to upload documents and ask questions to generate structured outputs and summaries grounded in their sources.
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Audio Overviews transforms documents into engaging audio summaries, presented in a podcast-style format. This tool enables users to absorb information while multitasking.
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Illuminate delivers polished audio summaries of academic papers, serving as a passive learning tool for busy individuals who need quick comprehension of dense research.
Although they share core technology from Gemini 3.0 and prioritize understanding, using these tools in combination can enhance productivity. Start with Illuminate for a quick overview, then utilize NotebookLM for deeper research, and listen using Audio Overviews for multitasking. Perfect for students, researchers, and journalists on tight deadlines.
