Google Docs adds Gemini-powered audio summaries

Google is rolling out a new Gemini feature in Google Docs that lets you listen to a short audio summary of a document, giving you a quick overview without reading the full text.^[1]

The feature, called Audio summaries, generates a brief spoken synopsis that typically runs under a few minutes and can cover content across multiple document tabs. Users can also customize the listening experience by choosing from different voice styles, including options like narrator, persuader, and coach, and adjust playback speed. 

In Google Docs on the web, the option appears in the Tools menu as “Listen to document summary.” 

The rollout began on February 12, 2026. Audio summaries are available for eligible customers on plans including Business Standard and Plus, Enterprise Standard and Plus, and select Google AI and education add-ons.

Audio summaries seem to fit into Google’s broader effort to embed Gemini directly into Docs workflows. Gemini is already available in the Docs side panel, where it can help summarize, draft, and refine content without requiring users to switch apps.

Docs also includes AI-assisted writing tools like “Help me write,” which can rephrase text, expand passages, bulletize content, or generate summaries.