Google’s new AI image-editing tool known by its playful codename “Nano Banana”is turning heads for more than just its name. The feature, part of Google’s Gemini 2.5 Flash model, went viral after its August launch for offering powerful AI-based image editing for free, and new data now suggests it might be cutting into Adobe’s Firefly app downloads.
According to figures shared with Business Insider by analytics firm Appfigures, downloads of Google’s Gemini app have surged since Nano Banana’s debut, while Adobe’s Firefly has seen a steep decline. Although it’s hard to prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the timing paints a clear picture.
When Firefly launched in June, it saw strong early momentum downloads in August were up 150% from the previous month. In comparison, Gemini grew just 20% in the same period. But things changed dramatically after Google rolled out Nano Banana to the Gemini app on August 26. Within a week, Firefly downloads plunged by more than half, while Gemini’s numbers shot up.
By October 6, Gemini downloads had increased by 331% compared to late July, while Firefly was down 68%, marking its lowest level since Nano Banana’s release. Appfigures data also shows Gemini gained 6.1 million more downloads than the week before the Nano Banana update, whereas Firefly lost about 2 million.
The trend is even more striking in the US. Between late September and late October, Gemini downloads jumped 88%, while Firefly fell 82% during the same time frame.
Interestingly, Adobe even added Google’s Nano Banana model to its own Firefly platform in September, arguing that its strength lies in offering multiple AI models in one place. Still, users appear to prefer using Google’s app directly — likely due to its ease of access and low or no cost.
The competition is starting to show in the market, too. Adobe’s stock has fallen nearly 35% over the past year, reflecting growing pressure from AI rivals like Google and OpenAI.
In short, Google’s Nano Banana might be more than just another AI feature — it could be a real “Adobe killer” in the making, reshaping how people edit images with artificial intelligence.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
