Google has expanded the language capabilities of its AI-powered learning tool, NotebookLM, by making its Audio Overviews feature available in over 50 new languages — including Kiswahili and Afrikaans. The update aims to improve access to audio-based learning for a wider range of users, particularly in multilingual regions such as Africa.
NotebookLM is designed to help users understand complex material by allowing them to upload content — from lecture notes to PDFs and research documents — and then ask questions, generate summaries, or listen to explanations. The Audio Overviews feature transforms uploaded documents into podcast-style conversations, enabling users to listen to synthesized discussions on the material, rather than read through text.
This functionality is now available in more than 50 languages, with a focus on increasing accessibility and supporting diverse learning preferences. In particular, the inclusion of Kiswahili and Afrikaans marks a significant step in extending AI-powered education tools to millions of people across the African continent.
According to Google, the feature has been enhanced since its original release, following the integration of Gemini 2.5 Flash in April 2025. This update improved the speed, responsiveness, and natural tone of the generated audio. It also introduced interactive capabilities, where users can ask follow-up questions within the audio experience for deeper understanding.
Language has historically been a barrier to digital access in Africa, especially in education. While many students and teachers rely on content in global languages like English or French, learning is often more effective in local languages. With the new expansion, a student in Tanzania can upload study notes in English but listen to the summary in Kiswahili. Similarly, a South African teacher can prepare content in both English and Afrikaans to accommodate multilingual classrooms.
Users can now set an “Output Language” in NotebookLM’s settings, enabling them to receive both text and audio responses in their preferred language. This flexibility is designed to make the tool more inclusive for different linguistic and educational contexts.
NotebookLM first launched globally in 2023 and has since reached users in over 200 countries. The addition of multilingual Audio Overviews represents Google’s continued push to personalize AI tools for education, learning, and content creation in local contexts.
The feature is expected to benefit a wide range of users — from students revising for exams, to researchers analyzing documents, to creators generating scripts and summaries — especially those who absorb information more effectively through listening.
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