Three former Google developers who worked on NotebookLM have launched Huxe, an audio-first app that generates AI-powered podcasts to help users explore and digest topics. The startup announced on Tuesday that it raised $4.6 million from Conviction, Genius Ventures, Figma CEO Dylan Field, and Google Research chief scientist Jeff Dean.
Initially rolled out on an invite-only basis in June, Huxe is now available on iOS and Android. The app delivers daily briefings by analyzing emails and calendars, and can generate “live stations” on topics like tech, sports, or celebrity news, which refresh with updates from multiple sources.
Like NotebookLM, Huxe allows users to create AI-hosted discussions that summarize and break down complex topics. Users can interact with these hosts in real-time, ask clarifying questions, or request different explanations.
Co-founder Raiza Martin, who built Huxe with Jason Spielman and Stephen Hughes, said the team pivoted from their initial chatbot idea after noticing strong demand for personalized audio during daily routines like commuting or getting ready.
“This is a well-suited product for people who spend all day on screens with multiple tabs open,” Martin told TechCrunch. “With Huxe, you can catch up on emails, schedules, and news without staring at a screen.”
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The startup sees opportunities beyond information delivery, with potential expansion into entertainment. Companies like Pocket FM, Kuku FM, ElevenLabs, and Oboe are also betting on AI-generated audio, while Google and Meta are exploring similar technologies.
