What is Nano Banana, and how to use it
There's a new artificial intelligence photo trend that has Filipinos going bananas.
If you've been on social media lately, you've likely seen your friends and family sharing stylized images of themselves or their pets.
The secret behind this viral trend is Google Gemini's new image editing tool, Nano Banana. Launched on August 26, the tool lets users create unique, custom images in seconds. It's fast, easy, and lets anyone turn a simple photo into something extraordinary.
According to Google, just a few days after its release, the Nano Banana has been used to generate 25.5 million images, with the Philippines as the top country for users.
But the trending style now is a realistic 3D-printed version of people's faces.
How to try the Nano Banana trend
To make this kind of image, visit the Google Gemini website and upload a full-sized photo.
Then, enter a specific prompt that describes how you want your picture to look. For this specific style, use the prompt:
"Using the nano-banana model, design a 1/7 scale commercialized figure of the illustrated character in a realistic style and setting. Position the figure on a computer desk, mounted on a clear circular acrylic base without any text. On the iMac screen, showcase the Blender modeling process of the figure. Beside the monitor, place a TAKARA-TOMY-inspired toy packaging box featuring the original artwork."
Wait for a few seconds to get your photo and download it for free.
Tips to generate an image
Aside from this specific photo trend, Gemini allows you to do more.
"Gemini lets you combine photos to put yourself in a picture with your pet, change the background of a room to preview new wallpaper, or place yourself anywhere in the world you can imagine — all while keeping you, you," Google said in its statement.
It can give you the hair color, costume, or outfit you like, or edit your photo with a new background location. With the right prompt, it also allows you to visualize your dream room renovation in seconds.
To achieve the image that you want, remember to be descriptive and use words like "Create an image of..." followed by a subject or scene that you like.
Also mention the specific style you want, such as Ghibli-inspired, a painting, realistic, etc. You can also request a specific photo size and image quality.
Remember to be as specific as possible on the elements that you want to see in your AI-generated photo. If you don't like the output, Google said that you can ask Gemini to change it while retaining objects that you prefer. It added that Gemini is also "great at creating surreal objects and unique scenes," so you can see your imagination come to life (at least in photos).
Safety concerns
Artificial intelligence's ability to manipulate photos has sparked controversy, particularly in an age where deep fakes and misinformation are rampant.
According to Google, while it is designed to follow instructions, it has strict limitations when it comes to instructions threatening child safety, dangerous activities like self-harm, pornography, excessively gory images, and any form of harassment and discrimination attacking a specific group.
"As a steerable tool, Gemini is designed to follow your instructions and customizations to the best of its ability, within certain specific limits. It should do so without conveying a particular opinion or set of beliefs unless you tell it to. And as Gemini becomes more personalized and able to do more for you, it will get better at serving your individual needs. And soon, customizations like Gems will give you even more control over your experience," Google said.