URGENT UPDATE: Speechify has just launched its new AI Podcasts feature, taking aim at Google’s popular NotebookLM tool. Launched on August 12, 2025, this innovative feature is designed to convert articles and documents into engaging, lecture-style podcasts, shaking up the landscape for content consumption.
The spotlight is on Speechify, which is best known for its text-to-speech capabilities. The new AI Podcasts allow users to transform written content into audio discussions featuring multiple speakers, closely mirroring the format of NotebookLM’s renowned Audio Overviews. With the promise of quick access to key insights, Speechify aims to revolutionize how users engage with information.
Why does this matter right now? As students and professionals gear up for the back-to-school season, the demand for efficient study tools has surged. With many leaning on digital solutions like NotebookLM, Speechify’s entry into the market could change the game for learners everywhere.
This feature is currently available exclusively to Speechify Premium users on iOS. Although the premium subscription might deter some users, a free trial option allows potential subscribers to explore this tool. Users can generate podcasts that last between 5-10 minutes, offering a concise format ideal for busy schedules.
In testing the feature, I discovered that creating an AI Podcast is simple. After uploading a document, users select from four podcast formats: the standard Podcast, a Late Night Show, a Debate, or a Lecture style. This variety allows for tailored content delivery, enhancing user experience.
During my trial, I uploaded a PDF article and was greeted with a dynamic interface that included playful visuals and real-time updates on podcast generation. Unlike NotebookLM, which often requires a longer wait for complete audio, Speechify allows listeners to engage with content almost instantly, while new material is still being processed.
The resulting podcast was impressive—concise, with witty banter and insightful commentary from the hosts. Speechify’s AI voices, known for their natural sound, added to the overall quality. Additionally, real-time captions appeared on-screen, addressing a significant limitation of NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews, which lack on-screen text.
However, while Speechify’s feature shines in several areas, it is not without limitations. Notably, podcasts are capped at 10 minutes, which might not suffice for in-depth study or comprehensive overviews. This restriction could hinder those who rely on extensive content for academic or professional purposes. Furthermore, the current inability to integrate multiple documents into a single podcast may pose challenges for users seeking to synthesize larger amounts of information.
Another notable drawback is the exclusivity to the iOS platform, limiting accessibility for those who primarily work on desktops or other devices. Users have voiced concerns about the necessity of a premium subscription, especially when free alternatives like NotebookLM offer robust features without a paywall.
Despite these challenges, Speechify’s AI Podcasts are a powerful new contender in the audio content arena. As users begin to explore this feature, its potential for improvement and expansion remains a focal point. The excitement around AI Podcasts could lead to significant shifts in how users consume and interact with digital content.
What’s next? As Speechify continues to develop its capabilities, users will be watching closely to see if it can innovate further. The response to this feature may determine whether it can dethrone NotebookLM as the go-to tool for audio summaries. Stay tuned for updates on user experiences and possible enhancements.
With the education landscape rapidly evolving, tools like Speechify are crucial in facilitating smarter, more efficient learning methods. As the competition heats up, users will benefit from a wider array of options for accessing information on the go.
