Google launches Nano Banana 2 following the widespread popularity of its AI-powered image creation tool

Google Introduces Nano Banana 2 for Enhanced AI Image Generation

On Thursday, Google announced the launch of Nano Banana 2, the latest version of its popular AI image generator. This new model promises improved speed, as the tech giant aims to draw more users to its AI-powered services.

Nano Banana 2 is being integrated into several Google products, including the Gemini app, Search’s AI Mode and Lens features, as well as Flow, the company’s AI-driven video creation tool, according to Alphabet.

This release marks another step in Google’s ongoing efforts to lead the AI sector, strengthening its position against competitors like OpenAI and its ChatGPT platform. After overcoming early setbacks, Google’s advancements have contributed to a 47% increase in its stock value over the past half year.

The original Nano Banana AI image editor debuted in August and quickly went viral, drawing 13 million new users to the Gemini app within just four days in September. By mid-October, users had created over 5 billion images using the tool.

Building on this momentum, Google introduced the enhanced Nano Banana Pro in November.

The latest Nano Banana 2 utilizes Gemini’s faster and more cost-effective Flash models, enabling quicker and more precise image creation and editing. Google also notes that the new version offers improved ability to follow user instructions and produces images with greater detail.

In November, Google also launched its Gemini 3 AI model, which was so successful that it prompted OpenAI to issue an internal “code red,” urging teams to speed up their own development efforts.

Gemini 3 has significantly increased user activity, helping the Gemini app surpass 750 million monthly active users by the end of December.

Reported by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Edited by Leroy Leo