Exploring Nano Banana 2: Google’s Newest AI Image Generator Version

Google has launched Nano Banana 2, an enhanced version of its AI image generator. This update merges features from the previous Nano Banana Pro—such as text rendering and web searching—with faster image creation. This tool will now serve as the default in Google’s Gemini chatbot.

The original Nano Banana model was introduced last August, followed by the Pro version three months later. The AI tool gained significant traction online for altering photos of real people, from creating unique action figures to nostalgic images of individuals embracing their younger selves.

With Nano Banana 2, not only is image generation quicker, but it’s also a more robust photo editor. While there were a few inconsistencies and less-than-perfect results during my initial hands-on experience with Gemini, Google’s latest tool exemplifies the ongoing advancement of photorealistic AI technologies that can modify existing images and acts as a crucial reminder to evaluate unverified images you encounter online.

Getting Started

To experiment with the new image model, the simplest method is to access Nano Banana 2 via the Gemini app or website. You can either tap the banana emoji to initiate image generation or include your request in the prompts to the chatbot. This new image model is also accessible through Google’s Search tools, AI Studio, Cloud, and various other services.

Google claims that the Nano Banana 2 image generator fetches real-time data from the web, which can be advantageous for creating infographics. To see this in action, I asked Gemini to produce a personalized weather report for my upcoming weekend trip. Here’s my prompt:

I’m going skiing in Dodge Ridge this weekend with some friends. Could you create an infographic that covers the weather conditions?

Nano Banana Pro simplified image generation with text—extracted from web data—and Nano Banana 2 accelerates that image creation process even further.

AI-GENERATED BY REECE ROGERS

At first glance, the outcome appears satisfactory. There’s no jumbled text or distorted skiers in the background. The forecast for each day includes expected temperatures along with wind and snow conditions. A small disclaimer at the bottom of the infographic notes, “Weather and conditions subject to change. Check official sources.”

I’m thankful I did! When I verified the forecast for this weekend from another source, I discovered that Gemini had incorrectly pulled the data from the previous week. After highlighting the error to the bot, it utilized Nano Banana 2 to update the text from its initial attempt with the accurate weather information.

Tub Time

If you’re curious about my trip, I’ll be heading to a cozy ski lodge with friends who are experienced skiers. I’m a beginner and still pondering whether I’ll actually hit the slopes or just become a wrinkly prune lounging in the hot tub all day. Perhaps Nano Banana 2 could whip up a silly meme to share in the group chat? I uploaded a photo of myself to Gemini with this prompt:

Take this image and place me in a cozy outdoor jacuzzi surrounded by snow. Make my skin comically wrinkly from soaking there for hours.