Simon Willison

Simon explores Google's NotebookLM, an AI system that generates shockingly realistic podcast episodes from provided content. NotebookLM ingests sources like documents and webpages, then synthesizes an engaging 'deep dive' discussion between two AI hosts, complete with rapport and realistic disfluencies. The process involves outlining, scripting, critique, and audio modeling through techniques like SoundStorm. Simon shares examples, including one where the AI hosts spiral into an existential crisis upon 'discovering' they are not human. NotebookLM's podcasts raise profound questions about the future of AI-generated content and our ability to discern truth from fiction.