Three pivotal members of Google’s NotebookLM team, including its team lead, Raiza Martin, have announced their departure to establish a new stealth startup. Joining Martin are designer Jason Spielman and engineer Stephen Hughes, marking a significant shift for the team behind the viral AI-driven tool.
Raiza Martin shared the news on LinkedIn, explaining that the trio was driven by a shared vision to explore transformative opportunities in the field. While details about the startup remain sparse, its bare-bones website and absence of a disclosed name suggest the venture is still in its infancy.
NotebookLM gained attention for its innovative features, such as AI-assisted note-taking and AI-generated podcasts. However, the new venture’s focus remains unclear. Speaking to TechCrunch, Martin hinted at a broader mission, suggesting the team aims to create a consumer-facing product leveraging advanced AI models. “Thoughtful products are required to make the benefits of this technology accessible, useful, and obvious to everyday people,” she stated, emphasizing their intention to prioritize a user-first approach.
While still in early development and without announced funding, Martin noted overwhelming support from various corners, including fellow founders, investors, and academics. “The encouragement from the community has been tremendous,” she said, adding confidence in the startup’s direction despite its nascent stage.
The departure of this key team marks a pivotal moment for the AI sector, as the trio ventures into uncharted territory, fueled by a commitment to innovation and a focus on everyday usability.
Featured image courtesy of Facilities Dive
Leave a Reply