What you need to know
- Google is introducing a new feature in NotebookLM called “featured notebooks” for desktop users.
- The initiative includes partnerships with esteemed publications such as the Atlantic and the Economist, providing in-depth advice and analysis notebooks, alongside contributions from Eric Topol and Yellowstone National Park.
- These featured notebooks are accessible to the public, allowing anyone to read or generate an Audio Overview.
- NotebookLM has also recently introduced “Public Notebooks,” enabling users to create comprehensive research pieces and share links with others.
In a significant update announced on July 14, Google is enhancing its NotebookLM application with the rollout of “featured notebooks,” designed to facilitate deeper understanding of complex subjects. This update builds on the app’s existing capability to curate high-quality sources for users tackling challenging topics, promising an even more streamlined experience.
Among the notable collaborations are the Atlantic and the Economist, which have contributed to public notebooks such as “How to Build a Life” and “The World Ahead 2025,” respectively. These resources not only provide valuable insights but also feature mind maps for topics like the “Complete Works of William Shakespeare,” illustrating the connections between various ideas.
Users are encouraged to engage with the AI by posing questions for further clarification, while those who prefer reading can access Gemini’s AI-generated summaries conveniently placed at the top of lengthy texts. The “featured notebooks” are now available for desktop users, marking a new chapter in how individuals can explore and learn.
NotebookLM helps streamline learning
As part of this rollout, users will discover a variety of publicly available notebooks, including:
- Longevity advice from Eric Topol
- A science enthusiast’s guide to visiting Yellowstone National Park
- An overview of long-term trends in human well-being, published by the University of Oxford-affiliated project, Our World In Data
- Science-backed parenting advice from psychology professor Jacqueline Nesi
- A notebook tracking Q1 earnings reports from the top 50 public companies globally
This latest feature appears to be a natural evolution of the Public Notebooks introduced in June. Much like sharing a Google Doc, users can compile their notebooks within the app and share links with others for collaborative interaction. This functionality is particularly beneficial for educators and learners, as it allows for focused study without the distractions of irrelevant information.
With the introduction of Discover Sources earlier this spring, users are relieved from the burden of manually searching for credible references. By simply describing their topic, NotebookLM autonomously gathers pertinent information, presenting users with a curated selection to review and select from. This thoughtful approach ensures that the learning process remains engaging and efficient.
