NEWS  AI  December 9, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Google continues to push exploration in the generative AI space with the release of NotebookLM, an experimental online note-taking app that utilizes the power of Google's new Gemini AI model. While the app offers a unique approach to organizing information, its mixed results and notable limitations raise questions about its practicality for users across various industries.

Gemini AI Model Integration

NotebookLM stands out by integrating Google's Gemini AI model, specifically the advanced "Gemini Pro." This model, with its higher parameter count, enables the app to process and analyze up to 20 documents simultaneously, each containing a substantial 200,000 words. The upcoming release of Gemini Ultra promises even more significant capabilities, while Gemini Nano caters to smartphone users running Android.

Functionality and Purpose

Designed in collaboration with author Steven Johnson, NotebookLM allows users to upload documents from their computers or Google Drive, creating a centralized digital note space. Users can then engage in a dialogue with the AI, asking questions related to the uploaded documents. This functionality aims to provide users with a personalized AI assistant capable of retrieving specific knowledge tailored to their needs.

Limitations and Initial Impressions

Despite its innovative features, NotebookLM faces a critical limitation—it cannot analyze or browse web links. This omission is surprising coming from Google, a company renowned for its web crawling and indexing capabilities. Users must manually save and upload webpages as PDFs or copy-paste text into Google Docs for analysis.

In initial tests, NotebookLM displayed limitations in referencing the full text of PDFs, occasionally omitting crucial information. The user interface also exhibited rough patches, including mismatched fonts, although these issues did not significantly impact product usage.

User Caution and Future Prospects

Google emphasizes a disclaimer at the bottom of the NotebookLM screen, cautioning users about potential inaccuracies in responses. This underscores the experimental nature of the app, encouraging users to independently verify information.

While NotebookLM offers an intriguing concept, its limitations may hinder widespread adoption. The inability to analyze web links and occasional inaccuracies raise questions about its reliability for users seeking a comprehensive AI-assisted note-taking experience.

U.S. users can explore NotebookLM for free, but its effectiveness and user satisfaction may depend on the specific use case and tolerance for its current limitations. You can give it a try here.

 COVER IMAGE BY FREEPIK