Easy Activation: Access the Gemini text-to-speech feature via the tools menu in Google Docs to listen to documents with a single click.
Customizable Experience: Choose from seven natural-sounding voices (e.g., Narrator, Coach) and adjust playback speed for tailored listening.
Enhanced Accessibility: Add audio buttons to shared docs, making them more accessible for students, professionals, or visually challenged users.
Google has recently announced the availability of the Gemini text-to-speech feature in Google Docs in August 2025. This add-on will improve users’ experience with Google Docs and make it accessible to auditory learners and visually challenged people. This article will explore how to use Gemini’s new audio feature, along with tips to utilize it effectively.
Google Docs is the most preferred tool for writing. The addition of Gemini’s audio feature can enhance the usability of the platform by letting users listen to long-form documents with voices that sound like people. It is a real time saver.
Here’s what Gemini’s audio feature offers:
Turns text into speech using realistic voices.
Allows users to pick voice styles and the speed of the speech.
Enables users to add play buttons to the documents they share.
Also Read: Gemini AI Assistant Debuts in Google Docs for Android, Boosting Productivity
Here's a basic step-by-step guide on how to begin using Google’s Gemini AI text-to-speech converter in Google Docs:
Open Google Docs on the web browser. Click on ‘Tools,’ and then ‘Audio,’ and finally click on ‘Listen to this tab.’ A tiny, movable player pops up, showing how long the document is.
Users can pick from seven voice styles: Narrator, Educator, Teacher, Persuader, Explainer, Coach, or Motivator, to suit their requirements. Coach is an energizer, whereas the narrator is a decent choice for reviewing a report.
Additionally, users can adjust how fast the document is being read. It can be slowed down to take notes or sped up to get a gist of the entire document.
Users can add buttons to the documents while sharing. This enables others to listen to the document very easily. To turn this function on, go to the ‘Insert’ tab, then select ‘audio buttons’ and finally click on the ‘Listen to tab.’
This materializes a play button that people can click. The button’s size and color can be changed. This feature is great for teachers sharing notes or people sending quick audio memos.
Also Read: How Speech-to-Text AI Is Reshaping Data Collection in Business Intelligence
Gemini audio has started rolling out since August 18, 2025, and is available for Google Workspace users with plans like ‘Business Standard,’ ‘Enterprise Plus,’ or ‘Gemini Education.’
A Google AI Pro or Ultra plan that costs Rs. 1,600/month in India is also needed. Users can switch the feature on by clicking on the “smart features and personalization” tab in their Workspace settings.
The new add-on is not perfect and is only available in English right now, which is not ideal for native language users. Some users on X are even saying the update is tardy when it comes to pronouncing names or adding appropriate pauses during the speech. However, the tech giant says teams are working on improving the user experience.
There are also worries about privacy. While the audio processing is secure, it is best to avoid inputting sensitive information. Furthermore, this feature is not free, which drastically narrows down the user base.
Gemini’s audio feature makes it easy to listen to long documents in Google Docs. It saves time and makes text-intensive files accessible to audio learners and visually challenged people.
With variable voices and simple controls, it feels like an audiobook. Users only need to open Google Docs, click on ‘Tools,’ and then ‘Audio,’ and finally click on ‘Listen to this tab’ to listen to the AI read the text. As Google’s AI improves, users can expect more exciting features like this to work smarter in 2025.
1. How do I access the Gemini audio feature in Google Docs?
Go to the Tools menu, select “Audio,” then click “Listen to this tab” to generate an audio version of your document.
2. Can I customize the voice and speed of Gemini’s text-to-speech?
Yes, use the audio player to adjust playback speed and choose from various natural-sounding voices.
3. Is Gemini’s audio feature available on mobile devices?
No, the feature is currently available only on the web and in English for desktop users.
4. How can authors add audio playback to Google Docs?
Authors can insert customizable audio buttons via Insert > Audio buttons > Listen to tab for easy reader access.
5. Who can use Gemini’s text-to-speech feature in Google Docs?
It’s available for Google AI Pro/Ultra subscribers and select Workspace plans like Business and Education Plus.