Google Renames NotebookLM to Gemini Notebook, Adds Code Execution

Google announced on Thursday that NotebookLM is becoming Gemini Notebook, maintaining its status as a standalone app while integrating more deeply with Gemini and Google Search.

Code Execution Now Available

The rebrand accompanies a significant feature update: Gemini Notebook can now connect to a secure cloud computer to write and execute code. This capability is currently available to Google AI Ultra and Workspace business customers. Pro users will receive access on the web "over the coming weeks," according to Google. Pricing for these tiers was not disclosed in the announcement.

Background and Evolution

Google first revealed the app as Project Tailwind in May 2023, releasing it widely months later. Since launch, the company has added features including AI podcast summaries, narrated slideshows, and TikTok-style clips to help users organize and synthesize their notes.

Recent updates enabled users to connect their notebooks to the Gemini app. Google plans to extend notebook access to AI Mode, its chatbot-like experience in Google Search.

What Remains Unchanged

Despite the new name and deeper integration with Google's AI ecosystem, Gemini Notebook will continue operating as a standalone application rather than being folded entirely into other Google products.

What This Means

The rename signals Google's strategy to consolidate its AI products under the Gemini brand, following similar moves with Bard and other AI tools. Code execution represents a meaningful upgrade for technical users, putting Gemini Notebook in more direct competition with computational notebooks like Jupyter. However, the tiered rollout suggests Google is testing infrastructure and user demand before broad deployment. The continued standalone status indicates Google sees value in maintaining a focused note-taking product rather than dissolving it into the main Gemini interface.