Google has expanded access to its AI-powered research tool, NotebookLM, with the launch of dedicated Android and iOS apps. Since its 2023 debut, NotebookLM has been limited to desktop users. The mobile release arrives just ahead of Google's annual I/O developer conference, signaling the company's push to make AI-driven note-taking and analysis more accessible.
The apps retain core features of the desktop version, including tools to simplify complex information through automated summaries and interactive querying of uploaded documents. New additions cater to mobile workflows, such as Audio Overviews—AI-generated podcast-style summaries of user-provided materials. These can be played in the background or downloaded for offline access. The apps also sync with existing notebooks, allowing users to create, edit, or review content across devices.
Integration with mobile ecosystems is a focus: users can save content directly from browsers, PDF viewers, or YouTube via the share button, streamlining how sources are added to notebooks. Each notebook organizes uploaded materials for quick reference, and the app adapts to device settings by offering light or dark mode.
While Google has not confirmed plans to discuss NotebookLM at I/O 2025, the app's release timing suggests potential updates. The launch positions NotebookLM as a competitor in the growing AI productivity space, where tools like Microsoft's Copilot and OpenAI's GPT-4 increasingly emphasize cross-platform versatility.
By prioritizing mobile accessibility, Google aims to cater to students, researchers, and professionals who rely on smartphones for real-time information management. The app's offline capabilities and audio features further address on-the-go needs, reducing dependency on constant connectivity. As AI becomes central to productivity workflows, NotebookLM's expansion underscores Google's strategy to embed its tools into everyday user habits ahead of key industry events.