20 days ago
TechCrunch Sep 1, 2026

Google’s answer to Canva is an AI tool where you prompt instead of design

Google is launching a new AI-powered image creation and editing tool called Google Pics, which will be integrated into its Google Workspace suite for business users and premium Google AI subscribers. The tool will be available in the coming weeks to Workspace customers and those subscribed to Google AI Pro or Ultra. Google Pics is designed for common design tasks such as creating posters, social media content, and other visual materials, aiming to compete with popular platforms like Canva and Adobe Express.

Unlike Canva, which offers a marketplace where artists can sell templates and graphics, Google Pics revolves around AI-generated content created through user prompts rather than manual design from scratch. The underlying AI model, called Nano Banana, was trained on a wide range of artwork to produce unique images based on users’ descriptive inputs. This prompt-driven creation marks a distinct approach from traditional design software, emphasizing simplicity and AI assistance over manual layout and design work.

Besides generating images, Google Pics provides additional editing features such as object isolation, text modification or translation within images, and the ability to create multiple versions of requested visuals for users to select the best outcome. Collaboration tools are also included, allowing teams to work together on projects seamlessly. Google plans to launch Google Pics initially within Google Docs and Slides, with subsequent integration into Google Drive and other Workspace applications.

This move underscores Google’s deeper push into the creative software market, dominated by Canva and Adobe, by introducing an AI-first alternative focused on prompt-based creation rather than conventional graphic design. By embedding Google Pics into Google Workspace, the company aims to streamline the creation process for professionals and businesses, enhancing productivity through AI-driven tools designed for everyday design needs.

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