NotebookLM, Google’s innovative AI tool, has made waves since its inception, offering users a unique way to curate and manage information. Unlike traditional AI platforms, NotebookLM allows users to dictate the sources from which it draws its insights, making it a versatile companion for tasks ranging from comparing insurance quotes to serving as a digital car manual. However, the absence of an Android app has long been a point of frustration for users who sought a more integrated experience.
With the recent launch of the NotebookLM Android app, expectations were high. Users anticipated a seamless transition from web to mobile, complete with enhanced functionality and better integration with other Google services. Yet, the reality has left many feeling underwhelmed.
Forget the Android app, stick to the web interface for now
The NotebookLM Android app does offer a functional experience, featuring smooth animations and logically organized menus. Users can switch between Google accounts, add sources, and even create Audio Overviews, mirroring the web experience to some extent. However, these features feel like the bare minimum for an application from a tech giant like Google.
When accessing NotebookLM through a web browser on a mobile device, users can enjoy the full range of features without any limitations. In contrast, the app has notable omissions that hinder its usability. For instance, while the app emphasizes its AI capabilities, it neglects practical functionalities that users rely on, such as the ability to create and manage notes effectively.
The app highlights features like Audio Overviews, where two AI hosts engage in a conversation about the notebook’s content. While intriguing, this is not the primary reason many users turn to NotebookLM. The lack of a robust note creation feature, which is essential for users documenting important information, is a significant drawback. Users expect a comprehensive note-taking capability, especially from a Google app in 2025.
Moreover, the app complicates content discovery by omitting the useful Discover feature available on the web. This tool allows users to submit queries and find related sources, enhancing the overall experience. The absence of this feature makes creating topical Audio Overviews less engaging and more cumbersome.
Additionally, users have reported slower processing times for Audio Overviews on the app compared to the web interface, raising questions about the app’s efficiency. While minor visual issues exist, such as the inability to switch languages, the core functionality remains the focal point of user expectations.
It’s a timid start, but NotebookLM on Android has plenty of room to grow
Despite the disappointment surrounding the NotebookLM app, there is still hope for improvement. The initial offering may lack depth, but it provides a foundation upon which Google can build. Users are eager for the integration of essential features like note-taking and source discovery, which would enhance the app’s practicality.
As Google continues to develop NotebookLM, the potential for growth is significant. Users remain optimistic that future updates will address these shortcomings, allowing the app to evolve into a more comprehensive tool that meets their needs. For now, however, many may find it more effective to rely on the web interface until the app catches up.
