Google is rolling out a new feature in Docs, which will allow you to listen to your Docs. The tech giant has announced a “Listen to your documents” feature, which is backed by Gemini, and gives you the option to hear your files read aloud in natural-sounding voices.
The update is designed for both authors and readers. Readers can access a new “Listen to this tab” option under Tools > Audio to quickly play back the contents of their document. For authors, Docs now supports Audio buttons, available under Insert > Audio buttons. These insert a play button directly into the document, allowing readers to listen with a single click. Authors can further customize these buttons by changing their label, size, or color.
Interestingly, the playback isn’t just one size fits all. It allows you to choose from different voices and adjust playback speed to match their preferences. Google says this will be useful not just for accessibility, but also for catching writing errors or absorbing information while multitasking.
However, in order to use the new Gemini features in Docs, or for that matter, on any other Workspace apps, you will have to enable the smart features and personalization. Workspace admins can also switch this on by default from the Admin console.
The rollout started on August 18, 2025, for Rapid Release domains and will begin on August 25, 2025, for Scheduled Release domains. The feature will be available to Google Workspace Business Standard/Plus, Enterprise Standard/Plus, Gemini Business/Enterprise add-ons, Gemini Education add-ons, and Google AI Pro and Ultra customers.
This isn’t the only new capability coming to Gemini. Recently, the company has also launched its Storybook, a feature that turns prompts into fully illustrated, narrated 10-page digital books. It allows you to describe any story idea, like a bedtime tale or an educational guide, and Gemini will generate a book with custom visuals and narration in more than 45 languages.
