Google Goes Audible: Tests “Audio Overview” on Search
Google has begun testing a new feature on its search platform called “Audio Overview,” which will allow users to receive brief spoken summaries in response to specific queries. According to a company announcement on Friday, the feature is powered by Google’s Gemini AI model. The news was first reported by TechCrunch.
Google stated, “An audio overview can give you a helpful introduction to a topic — and let you absorb information hands-free, especially useful if you’re multitasking or prefer auditory learning.”
Currently, the feature is being rolled out in a limited capacity through Google’s Labs. If deemed relevant to a specific search, users may see a “Generate audio overview” button. This will activate a simple audio player with basic functions such as play/pause, volume control, and playback speed adjustment.
The audio summaries will also include links to original sources, enabling users to explore more in-depth content if desired.
This initiative is primarily aimed at enhancing accessibility for auditory-focused users. However, the announcement comes at a time when Google’s AI Overview and other AI-driven features have been reportedly contributing to a decline in web traffic for news outlets, as highlighted in a recent report by The Wall Street Journal.
