Google is expanding its Gemini AI capabilities with two new features: Audio Overview, which transforms documents into podcast-style conversations, and Canvas, an interactive space for collaborative content creation. 

These additions enhance Gemini’s existing capabilities in brainstorming, research, and content generation.

Image credit: Google

Audio Overview Brings Documents to Life

Audio Overview, previously available in NotebookLM, is now being integrated into Gemini. 

This feature converts various document types—including class notes, meeting notes, slides, email threads, and research papers—into conversational audio content presented by two AI hosts. The hosts summarize material, connect topics, and engage in dynamic discussions to help users digest complex information.

“Audio Overview enhances learning in a fun and productive way,” Google states in a blog post. The feature aims to help users process information while multitasking, making content consumption more efficient.

Currently rolling out to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers globally in English, with additional languages planned, Audio Overview allows users to upload documents on various topics and generate AI discussions with a single click. 

These conversations can be accessed through both web and mobile platforms, with options to share or download for on-the-go listening.

Canvas Streamlines Content Creation

The second major addition, Canvas, provides an interactive space within Gemini for creating and refining both written content and code. 

Image credit: Google

Users can select Canvas from the prompt bar to write and edit documents or code with real-time feedback and suggestions from Gemini.

For written content, Canvas offers quick editing tools to adjust the tone, length, or formatting of specific sections or entire drafts. Users can highlight paragraphs and request stylistic changes, such as making text more concise or professional. Completed work can be exported to Google Docs for further collaboration.

For developers and coding students, Canvas simplifies the process of transforming ideas into working prototypes. The feature allows users to generate and preview HTML/React code and web app designs directly within the interface, eliminating the need to switch between multiple applications.

According to last year’s Edison Research survey into U.S. consumer media and technology usage, podcast listening and online audio consumption hit record highs: 76% of those aged 12+ listened to podcasts, equating to an estimated 218 million people. Moreover, 90% of those aged 12-34 and 85% aged 35-54 engaged with online audio monthly.

Strategic Feature Rollout

These updates align with the broader industry trend of expanding AI capabilities toward personal assistant functionality. 

According to Jitesh Ubrani, an analyst at ABI Research quoted by CNET, Google’s approach of releasing incremental AI updates is strategic: “It helps to trickle out news as it allows Google to capture headlines over a longer period.”

The AI workspace market has become increasingly competitive, with similar features available from competitors like Anthropic and OpenAI, which have their own versions of interactive workspaces—also called Projects and Canvas, respectively.

Canvas is rolling out globally for all Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers in all languages where Gemini Apps are available.