tech
Google just declared itself a contender in AI design at IO 2026
Google says it's designed the app to be accessible to everyone, from teachers to small business owners.
TL;DR
- Google announced Pics, an AI-powered design and image-generation app for Google Workspace.
- The app is designed for accessibility, allowing users to create social media graphics, invitations, and marketing materials with text prompts.
- Pics aims to compete with apps like Canva and AI design tools from competitors.
- Gemini powers the editing layer, enabling adjustable elements and modifications through text prompts or direct interaction.
- Users can edit manually without prompts, similar to editing documents.
- Pics is powered by Nano Banana 2, supporting precise text rendering and detailed visual output.
- The app is built natively into Google Workspace for visual collaboration.
- Pics will roll out to Google AI Ultra subscribers this summer.