A New Gemini Feature in Google Docs Will Allow Users to Listen to Documents
Google Docs is launching a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool that lets users listen to a document rather than read it. The Mountain View-based tech giant has now begun distributing the audio capability to users on the subscription tier of Workspace and Gemini customers, after first announcing it at the Google Cloud Next 2025 event earlier this year. Additionally, the AI-powered tool enables the document editors to include a “Listen to this tab” option that enables all viewers to hear the material as well.
Google Docs Provides a Novel Sound Experience
The internet giant described the new tool in a blog post on Monday, emphasizing that qualified users will be able to utilize Gemini in Google Docs to produce audio versions of their documents. Currently, users with Gemini Education and Education Premium add-ons, Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, and Google Workspace Business and Enterprise users can access it.
The new audio capability transforms text in a document into voices that sound natural by using Gemini’s native voice generation. Additionally, Google offers a number of voice-based identities, such as Coach, Motivator, Explainer, Persuader, Teacher, Educator, and Narrator.
Users of Docs can search for the new Audio option in the Tools menu, which is now only accessible through the web interface. It’s situated between Gemini and Voice Typing. A new “Listen to this tab” option appears in the Audio menu; selecting it launches a small player.
Play and pause buttons, a slider showing the amount of time left, a playback speed button, and the ability to choose different voices are all included with the pill-shaped player. To allow readers to hear the information, document owners and editors can additionally include a “Listen to this tab” button anywhere in the document. They can either type “@Listen to tab” or search for Audio buttons in the Insert menu to accomplish this.
For people who wish to hear the “content out loud, absorb information better while reading, or help catch errors in their writing,” Google claims that this function is perfect. Notably, the tool can only convert English text and is only accessible in the English language.
