Google's Nano Banana 2 Lite: 4-second images at $0.034 per 1,000
Generates an image every 4 seconds at a cost of just $0.034 per 1,000.
Google on Tuesday launched Nano Banana 2 Lite, a leaner version of its image/video generator optimized for speed and cost. The model can produce an image in four seconds and costs just $0.034 per 1,000 images, making it a practical choice for bulk creation and iterative design. It replaces the original Nano Banana (now legacy) and is available via Google AI Studio, the Gemini API, and Google’s Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform. Nano Banana 2 Lite complements the more capable Nano Banana 2 (a “generalist workhorse”) and the pricier Nano Banana Pro for advanced use cases.
Despite criticism over AI-generated content, Google continues investing in generative media. The company also expanded availability of Gemini Omni Flash ($0.10 per second of video output) and demoed Omni Product Studio, which turns static images into cinematic e-commerce videos. A recent $75 million deal with indie studio A24 has drawn backlash from fans, but Google markets these tools as ad creation aids. Nano Banana 2 Lite targets developers needing rapid high-volume image generation for everything from ad mockups to product prototyping.
- Latency: generates images in 4 seconds, optimized for high-volume workflows
- Pricing: $0.034 per 1,000 images, significantly cheaper than previous models
- Availability: via Google AI Studio, Gemini API, and Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform; replaces original Nano Banana
Why It Matters
Ultra-fast, cheap image generation enables rapid prototyping and large-scale content iteration for businesses.