Nano Banana is a cutting-edge image generation and editing model, developed by Google DeepMind, a subsidiary of Google, and powered by generative artificial intelligence 1. As a text-to-image variant within the advanced Gemini family of large language models, Nano Banana leverages sophisticated generative AI and large language model technology for comprehensive image creation and manipulation 1. Initially launched in August 2025 under its codename "Nano Banana," which quickly gained online traction, the tool was officially identified as Gemini 2.5 Flash Image upon its public release 1. Its advanced version, Nano Banana Pro, later integrated the Gemini 3 Pro Image architecture, featuring a multimodal foundation that enables a holistic understanding of creative intent beyond simple keyword matching 2.
The primary function of Nano Banana is to allow users to generate images from textual prompts and perform intricate edits using natural language commands 1. Its core capabilities include altering elements like hairstyles and backdrops, as well as seamlessly blending multiple photographs into a single output 1. A significant feature is its ability to maintain subject consistency, ensuring the appearance of a person or item remains consistent across various revisions 1. Furthermore, Nano Banana integrates "world knowledge" by connecting to Google Search, enabling it to produce factually grounded and contextually accurate visuals, such as maps and infographics . Since its inception, Nano Banana has found typical use cases across various applications, from quick, casual creativity and character sketches in its original form to advanced professional visuals, complex multi-step projects, and precise control in its Pro version . It quickly garnered viral attention for its photorealistic "3D figurine" images, demonstrating its capacity for innovative visual transformation 1.