Google makes viral Nano Banana image tools part of Search and Lens experience

Google is expanding the capabilities of its popular Nano Banana model, which gained fame through the Gemini app for its unique image generation features. The tech giant has started to integrate the Gemini 2.5 Flash Image model into AI Mode within both Google Search and Google Lens, enabling users to utilize advanced AI image editing and creation tools seamlessly within the Google environment. According to a report from 9to5Google, a new plus icon has been introduced in Google Search’s AI Mode. This icon replaces the previous carousel of suggested prompts with a more streamlined list view. When users tap on this icon, they gain access to several creative options: Gallery, Camera, and a distinctive Create Images feature marked by a banana emoji. Selecting Create Images changes the prompt to “Describe your image,” allowing users to either generate new visuals or upload existing ones for AI-enhanced edits. Once the image creation process is complete, users can easily download or share their creations, each featuring a subtle Gemini spark watermark in the bottom-right corner, reinforcing Google’s branding for AI. Additionally, Google Lens is receiving significant enhancements. After the introduction of Search Live and the Homework filter, Lens now boasts a new Create tab aimed at image generation. This updated interface includes repositioned text labels beneath icons, facilitating the display of more filters side by side. The Create tab, identifiable by a banana emoji on the shutter button, invites users to capture, create, and share images. Unlike the other filters, the Create option opens directly to the front-facing camera for selfies, although a lens toggle is still available. After capturing a photo, users are directed to the AI Mode prompt box, where they can specify the desired transformation or style. The Nano Banana features in Search and Lens are currently being rolled out to Android users in the United States who are part of the AI Mode Search Lab. This update reflects Google’s commitment to integrating generative AI capabilities throughout its product ecosystem.