Google is testing a new feature for its Play Books app. This feature creates audiobooks automatically. It uses computer voices to read books aloud. Google calls this “auto-narrated” audiobooks.
(Google Tests “Auto-Narrated” Audiobooks for Play Books)
The test is happening now. It’s available to some users in the United States. These users can find certain books with this new narration option. The feature uses text-to-speech technology. This technology turns written words into spoken audio.
Google says this could make more books available as audiobooks. Creating traditional audiobooks takes time and money. Professional narrators must record the books. Auto-narration could be faster and cheaper. It might help books without existing audiobook versions get heard.
There are limitations. Computer voices might not sound as natural as human voices. The voices might lack emotion or unique character. Some listeners may prefer human narration. The quality of computer voices has improved though.
Google is starting small. Only a selection of books on the Play Books platform are included in this test. Users can choose between different computer voices. They can also adjust the reading speed. Feedback from users will help Google improve the feature.
This move could change the audiobook market. It might make audiobooks more affordable. It could also increase the number of titles available. Other companies are exploring similar technology. Google’s large book catalog gives it an advantage.
The auto-narration is not meant to replace human narrators. Google sees it as another option. It could be useful for certain types of books. Educational texts or older public domain works might benefit.
(Google Tests “Auto-Narrated” Audiobooks for Play Books)
Google did not announce a full launch date. The company is gathering data from the test. They want to see how users respond. Future plans depend on this initial feedback. The goal is to expand access to books.