Gemini, Nano Banana Are Coming to Chrome as Google Reinvents the Browser

Chrome is no longer just a window to the web; it’s becoming the pilot.

In a new update announced Wednesday, Google said it is adding more Gemini-powered features directly into Chrome, including a permanent side panel assistant, built-in image tools, and an “auto browse” feature that can complete multi-step tasks across the web, rolling out in preview in the US for Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra subscribers.

The changes are rolling out across macOS, Windows, and Chromebook Plus, marking one of the biggest shifts in how Chrome works in years.

The most noticeable update is a redesigned Gemini side panel that stays anchored on the right side of the browser. Instead of jumping between tabs or opening a separate AI window, users can now keep Gemini available while continuing to browse.

Google says the goal is smoother multitasking. In her announcement, Chrome Vice President Parisa Tabriz described Gemini in Chrome as “like having an assistant that helps you find information and get things done on the web easier than ever before.”

Testers have reportedly used the side panel to compare products, summarize reviews, and manage packed schedules without losing their place online.

Nano Banana brings image editing into the browser

Google is also integrating its AI image tool Nano Banana directly into Chrome. The feature allows users to transform or edit images using simple text prompts, without downloading files or switching to another app.

According to Google, users can use it for creative tasks like redesign inspiration or turning research into infographics, all within the browser window. Nano Banana will be available to all Gemini in Chrome users.

Gemini connects with Google apps

The update expands Gemini’s ability to work across Google’s ecosystem. Chrome now supports deeper integrations with Gmail, Calendar, Maps, YouTube, Google Shopping, and Google Flights through what Google calls “Connected Apps.”

These integrations allow Gemini to pull context from emails, check travel details, suggest flights, or help draft messages without users leaving Chrome. The features are optional and can be enabled or disabled in Gemini’s settings.

Google says these connections are meant to reduce friction during common tasks, such as planning trips or coordinating work schedules.

Furthermore, a “Personal Intelligence” feature is slated to arrive in the coming months. This will allow Chrome to remember context from your past conversations to provide tailored help. Tabriz explained that this “transforms the browsing experience from a general purpose tool into a trusted partner that understands you and provides relevant, proactive and context-aware assistance.”

The latest updates highlight Google’s broader push to transform Chrome from a passive browsing tool into an intelligent assistant — and to defend its position as AI-powered browsers from rivals like OpenAI and others begin to emerge. Google is betting that by making it an active, task-handling partner, you’ll have less reason to ever leave its ecosystem.

Also read: Seven Google AI features that are making the internet easier to use.

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