15 incredibly useful things you didn’t know NotebookLM could do

Fast Company Tech

by JR Raphael

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

NotebookLM, an AI-first notebook created by Google, offers a unique solution to the challenge of effectively using generative AI in practical, everyday scenarios. By allowing users to upload their own source materials into confined notebooks, NotebookLM leverages Google’s Gemini AI to provide illuminating insights and answers based solely on the uploaded content. This eliminates many issues related to accuracy and hallucinations, while ensuring complete privacy as no data is shared or used for model training. The tool’s real strength lies in its ability to transform complex information into accessible, actionable knowledge, making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking deeper understanding and efficiency. One of the most impactful use cases highlighted in the article is leveraging NotebookLM as an on-demand product answer machine. By creating a notebook dedicated to product manuals, users can upload PDF versions of appliance or device manuals, along with warranty cards. This setup enables quick access to information about how products work, troubleshooting tips, and warranty details, eliminating the need to sift through physical manuals. Similarly, NotebookLM can be used for car maintenance by uploading owner manuals and service receipts into a dedicated notebook, allowing users to instantly answer questions about vehicle features or past repairs. For those interested in design and tech, NotebookLM’s ability to organize and retrieve information efficiently is particularly valuable. Whether it’s creating a personal company wiki, managing contracts, analyzing financial data, or even parsing complex technical documents, NotebookLM streamlines the process of accessing critical information. This tool empowers users to turn raw data into actionable insights, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to enhance productivity and decision-making in their professional or personal life. In essence, NotebookLM transforms the often overwhelming task of managing information into a seamless, user-friendly experience. By providing concrete examples of how to apply its features in real-world scenarios, the article underscores the tool’s potential to revolutionize how individuals interact with AI-powered

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Originally published on Fast Company Tech on 2/25/2026