What to know

  • Google will launch native NotebookLM apps for iOS and Android on May 20, 2025, coinciding with Google I/O 2025.
  • The apps will be powered by Gemini 2.5 Flash and offer offline mode and background audio playback.
  • Users can pre-register now for automatic download, with premium features available through Google One AI Premium subscription.

Google is set to transform how you research on the go with dedicated NotebookLM apps launching on May 20 for both iOS and Android devices. The apps are currently available for pre-registration, allowing for automatic download when they officially release.

NotebookLM, Google's AI-powered research assistant, has until now been accessible only through web browsers. The service lets you upload various content like PDFs, articles, YouTube links, and Google Docs, then uses AI to summarize key points, answer questions, or even convert your materials into podcast-like audio.

The new mobile apps address previous limitations by offering full offline functionality. You'll be able to download AI-generated audio summaries for later listening, even without an internet connection. The apps will also support background audio playback, continuing to play even when you switch to other apps or lock your screen.

Under the hood, NotebookLM is now powered by Gemini 2.5 Flash, Google's latest AI model that became available to developers in preview on April 18, 2025. This model offers improved reasoning capabilities while maintaining high efficiency and low latency, making it ideal for mobile applications.

To get early access, you can visit either the App Store or Google Play Store and select "Pre-order" or "Pre-register." On May 20, the first day of Google I/O 2025, the app will automatically download to your device. After signing in with your Google account, you'll have immediate access to the service.

For those wanting enhanced features, NotebookLM Plus is available with a Google One AI Premium subscription. The premium tier offers five times more Audio Overviews, queries, and sources per notebook. You'll also gain the ability to customize the style and length of notebook responses, share notebooks with teams, and access usage analytics.

The timing of this release aligns with Google's broader AI strategy, as the company continues to integrate its Gemini models across its product lineup. With these new apps, NotebookLM aims to make AI-assisted research more accessible whether you're commuting, traveling, or simply away from your desk.