Google’s NotebookLM Plus: Is the AI tool worth the cost?

Google’s NotebookLM, now bundled with its $20 monthly One AI Premium subscription, aims to transform how users interact with their documents by functioning as an AI research assistant that can analyze and explain complex content. The tool, which processes everything from PDFs to Google Docs, joins Gemini Advanced and 2TB of cloud storage in Google’s expanding AI services portfolio. But is it really worth the cost?

Core functionality: NotebookLM functions as a personal AI research assistant that analyzes uploaded documents and responds to user questions about their content.

• Users can upload PDFs, Google Docs, and webpages to create topic-specific notebooks
• The tool can generate podcasts, create study notes, and provide quick summaries of uploaded content
• A practical use case involves uploading product manuals for quick access to specific information, eliminating the need to manually search through lengthy documents

Free vs. Plus comparison: NotebookLM’s basic version offers substantial functionality for casual users, while the Plus version extends capabilities for power users.

• Free accounts receive 100 notebooks, 50 sources per notebook, and 50 daily chat queries
• Plus subscribers get 500 notebooks, 300 sources per notebook, and 500 daily chat queries
• Premium features include customizable response styles (Guide and Analyst), adjustable output length, and shareable “Chat-only” notebooks

Premium features deep dive: The Plus version introduces enhanced customization options that add flexibility to how users interact with their content.

• Guide style offers conversational responses while Analyst style provides more direct answers
• Users can create custom response styles similar to Gemini’s Gems feature
• Adjustable output length allows for both concise and detailed responses based on user needs
• Shareable notebooks protect source material privacy while enabling collaboration

Value proposition analysis: The standalone value of NotebookLM Plus varies depending on user needs and usage patterns.

• Basic users can accomplish most tasks within free version limitations
• Research-intensive users requiring multiple sources and notebooks may benefit from Plus features
• The true value proposition lies in the broader Google One AI Premium package, which includes Gemini Advanced and 2TB storage
• A free trial allows users to evaluate the premium features before committing

Looking ahead: While NotebookLM Plus may not justify a subscription on its own for most users, its inclusion in Google’s broader AI Premium package creates a compelling offering for those already invested in Google’s ecosystem. The tool’s evolution and integration with other Google services could further enhance its value proposition in the future.