Google news app introduces new ‘Listen’ tab that reads top headlines aloud for hands-free updates

Google has quietly introduced a new, audio-first feature in the Google News app that enables readers to stay up to speed on the latest headlines without having to read a single word, a tool that is especially handy when you are multitasking, stuck in traffic, or getting ready in the morning.

The update, which was spotted by XDA Developers, has started to roll out in the Android version of the app in 5.146.x builds. The iOS version also seems to have received an internal update with a similar version number, according to iOS version-tracking site ipao. The rollout marks one of the most significant changes to the Google News app in years. Tapping on the Listen tab slides a clean audio player from the bottom of the screen that’s equipped with large controls, playback speed options, as well as big buttons for rewinding and skipping forward in the audio briefing.

Listen replaces the old headlines card in the middle of the app’s home screen, so when you launch the Google News app and select Listen, you’re immediately presented with the player.

Listen: From headlines to hands-free listening

Google is building the Listen feature around a new type of AI-generated audio content that the company is calling Audio Briefings.

The Briefings are a short, conversational summary of the most important news stories of the day. Rather than using automated text-to-speech on headlines, Google’s AI-generated briefing often uses natural-sounding voices and a format that is more podcast-like than a machine reading the text.

In some cases, Google’s implementation sounds like two AI “hosts” are even having a conversation about the latest stories.

As each headline is read aloud, the app also displays the title of the story, and you are able to tap a button if you want to quickly jump into the full story for additional context. Underneath the audio player is a card that includes links to Full Coverage on related stories, and you can tap through and read those stories without pausing or leaving the Listen screen.

Google’s new Listen feature with AI-generated Audio Briefings is yet another example of how companies are building audio experiences into every part of their digital products. As more people consume news on the go while walking, commuting, or doing the dishes, Google’s Listen feature and its audio briefings make it easier than ever to get a quick read on what’s happening in the world without having to look at the screen.

Audio Briefings is also a smart move for Google considering that listening to news, whether on podcasts, smart speakers, or other devices, is a rapidly growing trend in the news industry. Engaging users with audio content when they are already in an audio mindset can drive additional engagement across all news publishers and products. Audio Briefings is one of the best ways to reach readers in those moments, where they already have their headphones in and their eyes free.

When and where will I get it?

As with most feature launches, Google is gradually releasing Listen to the Google News app in phases.

The feature is only visible for a large group of users in the United States and some international English markets. However, it’s possible that Google will bring the feature to more countries and languages once the testing phase is complete. If you want to check it out before it’s available in your region, you can try changing your Google News app’s Language & region of interest to “United States” (rather than your home region), which may temporarily unlock the Listen feature.