Google has integrated its Nano Banana (Gemini 2.5 Flash Image) model into Google Lens and AI Mode, broadening the reach of this AI-based image generation tool. This change, noted in late August 2023, enhances user experience by introducing new features and capabilities.
New Features in Google Lens
The Nano Banana integration into Google Lens introduces a Create tab on the interface's bottom row, following Search, Translate, and Live. This feature welcomes users with a "Capture, Create, Share" message, accompanied by a banana emoji icon. It defaults to selfie mode, with an option to switch cameras. After capturing an image, the AI Mode's prompt box allows users to input instructions for generating or editing images, optimizing space by moving the icons above the text.
AI Mode Integration Details
In AI Mode, the integration introduces a subtle but impactful '+' menu in the prompt box's bottom left. This menu includes new options such as Gallery, Camera, and Create images. Selecting the Create images option shifts the prompt to "Describe your image," allowing users to generate new images or edit existing ones using the innovative AI technology.
Availability and Future Expansion
The integration is currently available to select users enrolled in an experimental program in the US, with 9to5Google confirming its existence. Although Google has not released a timeline for broader availability, there are indications of a wider rollout and further integration of Nano Banana into other Google services in the future.
