Google’s Nano Banana AI Hits 5 Billion Images as Retro Baby Selfie Trend Goes Viral

Google’s AI image generator, Nano Banana, powered by the Gemini 2.5 Flash Image model, has officially crossed 5 billion images in less than a month, becoming a major social media sensation. The tool is driving viral trends ranging from 3D models and vintage sarees to polaroid-style selfies with celebrities.

Retro Baby Selfies Take the Spotlight

The latest craze involves users creating retro selfies holding a baby version of themselves. Josh Woodward, Vice President at Google, shared the milestone on X (formerly Twitter):

“🍌@GeminiApp just passed 5 billion images in less than a month. What a ride, still going! Latest trend: retro selfies of you holding a baby version of you. Can't make this stuff up!”

Even Google CEO Sundar Pichai joined in, posting a 3D model of himself holding a dog and joking, “Make that 5 billion and 1 😂.”

What Makes Gemini Nano Banana Popular?

Gemini Nano Banana stands out among AI image generators because it:

• Allows complex edits such as removing or replacing backgrounds
• Can modify subjects’ clothing or other details while maintaining image coherence
• Produces multiple high-quality images quickly for free, unlike some other AI tools with limited usage

While other AI image tools like ChatGPT’s native image generator created earlier social media crazes, Nano Banana offers faster generation and more flexibility, fueling a wave of viral trends.

How to Create Your Own Retro Baby Selfie

• Open the Gemini app or website.
• Tap on the Nano Banana icon.
• Upload your chosen images and provide a prompt.

Example Prompt 1:

“Create a fun, high-quality retro-style selfie where the adult in [Image 1] is holding the baby from [Image 2] as if they’re taking a casual smartphone selfie together. Match lighting and skin tones, add a subtle vintage/film filter, keep the adult’s outfit and hairstyle, and ensure the baby remains recognizable. Background: cosy indoor setting with gentle light.”

Example Prompt 2:

“Create a realistic, high-quality photo of me (adult) holding a baby version of myself. Use my childhood photo as the baby reference. The adult should match the pose and clothing of the current photo. Make the setting warm and nostalgic, with soft retro lighting. Ensure facial features and expressions blend naturally for a heartwarming result.”

Bottom Line

Nano Banana’s rapid rise highlights the growing popularity of AI-driven image creation and social media trends. From retro selfies to 3D portraits, the Gemini app continues to push creative boundaries and engage millions worldwide.