The Future of Books and Improving Your memory with AI: Steven Johnson (Author and Google Labs)

Steven Johnson, author and co-creator of Google's NotebookLM, discusses the role of walking in generating ideas, especially in the context of AI tools like NotebookLM. He explains how uninterrupted time aids associative thinking and mentions the physiological benefits of walking at a natural pace. The conversation explores the concept of "uselessness" and play in innovation, referencing his book "Wonderland" and Kenneth Stanley's "Why Greatness Can't Be Planned." Johnson details the development and capabilities of NotebookLM, emphasizing its ability to identify surprising ideas and its grounding in uploaded source material. He shares personal use cases, such as using NotebookLM for product development and brainstorming book ideas, and touches on future features like source recommendations. The discussion also covers the tone of AI writing, data privacy, and the potential for AI to enhance both authorship and readership, including new forms of interactive reading experiences. He also addresses potential pitfalls, such as the creation of junk content, and highlights NotebookLM's multilingual capabilities and image recognition features.