Google brings Nano Banana AI image editing to any Android app

Google is expanding access to its Nano Banana AI image editing tool by integrating it into the Gemini Overlay, making it available from any app on Android devices. The move represents a strategic push to increase brand awareness and accessibility for Google’s AI-powered image editor in the competitive generative AI landscape.

What you should know: The Gemini Overlay will soon feature an “Edit this image” button that launches Nano Banana’s editing capabilities directly within conversations.

• When users add an image to a Gemini overlay conversation, they’ll see the new editing option that connects them to Nano Banana’s AI-powered tools.
• The familiar yellow banana icon is absent in this implementation, but the underlying AI technology remains unchanged.
• This expansion follows Google’s recent addition of Nano Banana to Search, Photos, and NotebookLM.

The mystery feature: Google is also testing a “Feeling Lucky” button featuring the banana icon, though its exact function remains unclear.

• The button appears to be inactive in current testing, but likely will apply automatic, random edits based on Google’s algorithmic suggestions.
• This concept mirrors Google Search’s “I’m Feeling Lucky” button, which either takes users directly to the first search result or, when used with a blank search, leads to randomly curated content pages.
• The feature could encourage creative exploration and help users discover new editing capabilities they might not have considered.

Why this matters: Making Nano Banana universally accessible through the Gemini Overlay positions Google to capture more market share in AI-powered image editing.

• The always-available nature of the overlay means users won’t need to switch between apps to access editing tools, potentially reducing reliance on competing platforms.
• Google’s strategy of embedding Nano Banana across multiple touchpoints creates more opportunities for brand recognition and user engagement.
• The expansion aligns with Google’s broader effort to establish Nano Banana as the go-to tool for AI image editing, leveraging its now-iconic banana branding.

How it works: The Gemini Overlay appears over any app when summoned, typically by long-pressing the power button, providing quick access to Google’s AI assistant.

• Users can describe their desired image edits in natural language, and Nano Banana will apply the requested changes.
• Google already provides regular tutorials for Nano Banana, including recent guidance on creating Halloween-themed portraits.