Google’s NotebookLM experiments with AI-powered interactive mind maps

· 2 min read
NotebookLM mindmaps

Google is reportedly developing an interactive mind map feature for its AI-powered note-taking tool, NotebookLM. This feature is currently under development and has not yet been released. Here's what is known about it:

The interactive mind map will allow users to:

  1. Generate a visual representation of sources uploaded to their notebooks.
  2. Click on individual items within the mind map to trigger related discussions in NotebookLM's chat interface.
  3. Potentially export these visualizations into formats like JSON for use in external tools.

This feature aligns with NotebookLM’s mission of helping users synthesize complex information by leveraging AI. It provides a visual, interactive way to explore connections between sources, which could be particularly useful for researchers, students, and professionals managing large datasets or projects.

Timeline and Availability

The mind map feature is still in testing phases under experimental settings. While no official release date has been announced, its presence under experimental flags suggests that it may undergo limited trials before a broader rollout.

NotebookLM

Context on NotebookLM

NotebookLM, powered by Google’s Gemini AI technology, was launched as a research assistant capable of summarizing, analyzing, and interacting with user-provided content such as documents, PDFs, and YouTube links. It emphasizes grounding its outputs in user-provided sources rather than generating generic responses. The tool also includes features like Audio Overviews and a premium version called NotebookLM Plus for advanced functionalities.

Broader Implications

Google’s investment in features like this reflects its broader strategy of integrating AI into productivity tools. With NotebookLM already transitioning from an experimental product to a polished offering since late 2024, the addition of such features indicates Google’s aim to position it as a leading tool for knowledge management and synthesis.

While the feature is still under wraps, its potential applications highlight Google's continued focus on leveraging AI to simplify complex workflows and improve information accessibility.