Google Messages toning down how thirsty Nano Banana Remix is - 9to5Google

Google is dialing back how prominently it promotes Nano Banana Remix inside Google Messages after the feature’s viral November debut.

What’s changed in Google Messages

• Smaller Remix control: The glowing “Remix” pill that appears when you long‑press an image is now noticeably smaller.
• Banana emoji removed: The banana icon has been replaced with a generic image badge featuring an AI sparkle, making the control feel subtler and less distracting next to text.
• Cleaner fullscreen viewer: The Remix button no longer sits on top of images in the redesigned fullscreen view. Tip: tap again to hide all UI and see only the image. The Remix control now lives as a circular button in the bottom‑left next to the comment count. It’s a bit busy side‑by‑side, but functional.

Why it matters

• Google acknowledged feedback in early December, saying it’s actively refining Nano Banana to be smoother, more user‑friendly, and enjoyable. These UI tweaks directly reflect that push for a less intrusive experience.

Availability

• The changes are rolling out in the latest Google Messages beta (version 20251212_00_RC01).

Broader Nano Banana push

• Google is testing a Nano Banana entry point at the top of the Google app that opens Lens to the Create tab.
• After Nano Banana Pro launched, gemini.google.com promoted it with a recurring banner on each page load.
• Given the broad rollout, there’s a growing case to phase out the banana emoji branding overall in favor of a subtler icon.

Bottom line

• Google Messages now offers a cleaner, less “thirsty” take on Nano Banana Remix—smaller controls, no banana emoji in key spots, and fewer visual obstructions—while Google continues experimenting with discovery across its apps.

Source: https://9to5google.com/2025/12/20/google-messages-nano-banana-remix/