Exclusive: Google set to launch Gemini Flash 3.1 Image Preview

Update from 23.02.2026: Google has halted "Nano Banana 2 Flash" preparation in favor of a newer model called Gemini Flash 3.1 Image Preview.

Nano Banana Flash is now on Arena

powered by Gemini 3.1 Flash Image pic.twitter.com/NtjqYHmGuk

— Legit (@legit_api) February 24, 2026

Early Testing of Nano Banana 2 in 4K (Gemini 3.1 Flash Image Preview) pic.twitter.com/sAG8SkdELp

— MarsEverythingTech (@MarsForTech) February 24, 2026

Some latest samples, via zai 👀

Gemini Flash 3.1 Image Preview sample

Content from 07.12.2025: Google appears to be finalizing the announcement for a new Gemini-related model, most likely Nano Banana 2 Flash. Previously, the Pro version of Nano Banana 2 was internally referred to as Ketchup , while recent code references to Mayo point to the introduction of the Flash variant. Early access to Nano Banana 2 Flash has revealed that its sample outputs closely match those of Nano Banana 2 Pro, suggesting performance parity at a lower operational cost. This move would enable Google to scale access to Nano Banana 2 using the more efficient Flash model, targeting a wider user base without sacrificing quality.

Early Preview of Nano Banana 2 Flash in 4K pic.twitter.com/x6nljyLw1N

— MarsEverythingTech (@MarsForTech) December 7, 2025

Nano Banana Flash (Gemini 3 Flash Image) pic.twitter.com/XBFb9XpOgN

— MarsEverythingTech (@MarsForTech) December 9, 2025

NEW Nano Banana Flash powered by 3 Flash - examples!

A new Nano Banana variant is coming powered by Gemini 3 Flash rather than 3 Pro!

It’ll most likely be cheaper and faster, but still VERY similar to NB Pro. Here are some example outputs: pic.twitter.com/58oMRegy89

— Leeham (@Liam06972452) December 8, 2025

The new model is expected to appear within the existing Gemini ecosystem, potentially replacing or supplementing current offerings where cost optimization is critical. This would be particularly relevant for users and organizations requiring large-scale deployments without premium pricing.

Gemini 3 Flash is now on LM Arena pic.twitter.com/GaudzudiD8

— ʟᴇɢɪᴛ (@legit_api) December 7, 2025

The rollout of these references in code typically precedes an official announcement, indicating that public release could be imminent, likely in the coming weeks of December.

Nano Banana 2 Flash sample

For context, Google’s recent strategy has centered on broadening Gemini’s reach through model tiering, offering Pro-level capabilities to premium users and using Flash models for cost-sensitive or high-volume use cases. Integrating Nano Banana 2 Flash aligns with this approach and supports ongoing efforts to balance model quality with operational scalability.