NotebookLM stands out among AI tools, facing little competition. While it’s accessible to anyone, Google emphasizes features that benefit students, and a forthcoming update could make it even more useful for learning.
Powered by Gemini, this AI research assistant differs from typical Gemini chatbots because it only draws on the sources you upload, rather than scanning the entire web—where information can be contradictory. If your supplied sources don’t contain an answer, NotebookLM won’t fabricate one.
A Threads post from the AI‑focused site Testing Catalog on Wednesday suggests that NotebookLM might soon let users add a new type of source: textbooks. If implemented, this would give students a powerful new way to use the tool as a study companion.
Textbooks would join the growing list of source options for NotebookLM, which already includes files, websites, audio clips, Google Play Books, and more. Being able to upload an academic textbook for an upcoming exam sounds like a clear advantage for learners.
Testing Catalog shared a screenshot showing textbooks as a selectable source, but details are scarce. The ability to scan any book’s pages and add them suggests a possible partnership.
Last year, Google teamed up with OpenStax—known for free, peer‑reviewed textbooks—when it launched Public Notebooks. It remains unclear whether the new textbook source will be limited to OpenStax titles or involve another collaboration.
Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.