How Google's Nano Banana Supercharges NotebookLM Video Overviews

How Google's Nano Banana Supercharges NotebookLM Video Overviews

NotebookLM just received a major upgrade. Google has added Nano Banana, a visual intelligence model that can turn your written materials into narrated videos complete with custom illustrations.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

October 21, 2025

Ever stared at a 40-page business plan and wished it would just explain itself? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the New Nano Banana Supercharged Video Overviews.

Google has enhanced the NotebookLM Video Overviews with Nano Banana, an image-generation model from the Gemini family, to create narrated videos with original, context-aware visuals. 

It’s like having your own multimedia editor who can read your notes and produce a short explainer clip on demand.

Feature Explanation

NotebookLM’s Video Overviews already summarized your documents through voice and text. 

The Nano Banana upgrade adds visuals that match the content you’re reviewing. 

When you upload a report, research paper, or any other document, the system automatically builds a short video summary. 

You can choose between a full “Explainer” or a shorter “Brief.”

The visuals aren’t pulled from stock images. Nano Banana generates fresh illustrations that reflect the subject of your document. 

You can pick from styles such as Watercolor, Anime, Whiteboard, or Retro Print, and you can tell the system what to emphasize. 

For example, a user could upload a financial report and request a focus on “cost analysis visuals” or “main takeaways only.”

The result is a short video that pairs a natural-sounding voice-over with relevant visuals. 

It’s fast, surprisingly personal, and much easier to digest than reading a pile of notes.

What You’ll Gain

• Save Time: Convert lengthy material into quick visual summaries.
• Understand More: See key concepts illustrated right as they’re explained.
• Engage Others: Share videos that are easy to watch and remember.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Web or Desktop Version

1. Open NotebookLM, notebooklm.google.com.
2. Create a new notebook, or choose one already stored there.
3. Go to the “Studio” section and select “Video Overview.”
4. Select Edit (pencil icon).
5. Choose either the Explainer or Brief format.
6. Pick a style and add any instructions to focus on certain sections.
7. Click Generate and wait a few moments for the video to appear.
8. Watch your summary directly in NotebookLM or share it with others.

fig. 1 - Customize Your Video Formats

fig. 2 - Example of NotebookLM Video Overview

On Mobile (iOS or Android)

1. Launch the NotebookLM app (iOS / Android).
2. Open your document and tap the “Video Overview” option.
3. Choose your format and style, then press Generate.
4. Preview or export your finished video.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Turns reading time into viewing time.
• Visually driven explanations improve understanding.
• Offers multiple visual styles for different audiences.
• Short “Brief” videos are perfect for quick meetings or client updates.

Cons

• Visuals can be less accurate for highly technical or specialized documents.
• Some users may need access through a paid plan.
• Results depend on how clearly you guide the tool with your prompt.
• Not ideal for documents that require precise legal or academic interpretation.

Feature Access

The upgraded Video Overviews feature is first available to NotebookLM Pro users. 

Broader access will follow as Google rolls out updates. 

At launch, the feature supports English with additional languages coming soon. 

Web and desktop users have full access, and mobile support will expand over time.

Score

Criterion  |  Score | Explanation

Value 9

Converts reading into quick visual learning, saving real time for professionals and educators.

Usability 8

Clear controls and helpful prompts, though first-time users may need a bit of practice.

Wow Factor 8

Turning your own documents into mini-videos with custom art feels genuinely new.

Total Score: 25 out of 30  - Excellent. Recommended for immediate use.

The Brief format shines for fast communication, while the Explainer version is better for lessons or deep reviews.

Key Takeaways

Nano Banana adds visual intelligence to NotebookLM. 

Your notes and reports can now become short, narrated videos that look professional and are easy to share. 

It’s a real step forward for people who want to communicate faster and remember more.

Try It Yourself

Open a document in NotebookLM, select Video Overview, and pick the Brief format. 

Choose a visual style that fits your audience. Generate your first video and share it with a coworker or friend. 

Watch how quickly they understand the material.

READ MORE

• Learn with NotebookLM: Smarter Study Tools for Students and Professionals
  
• AI-powered Note-Taking Gets a Voice, and an Opinion
  
• NotebookLM’s New Video Overviews: Turn Your Research into AI-Narrated Slides
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned technology expert and editor of OneCoolTip.com, transforms complex tech into practical advice for everyday users. His Cool Tips empower readers to stay productive, secure, and one step ahead in the digital world.

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