Google Docs gets Gemini-powered AI image generation

Remember preparing your essays in school or college and the multi-step process that came into play when you wanted to add in an image, if you happen to find the right one? Well, Google Docs’ newest feature makes that easier. So, the next time you’re looking for an image of an African elephant standing next to a lion, you needn’t scour the internet for endless wildlife pictures.

In fact, you will likely get whatever image you want without even leaving the Google Doc, thanks to AI. That’s because Docs is introducing Gemini-powered AI image generation right into the text writing platform. Here are all the details.

Google Docs image generator: What’s new?

The new tool will let Google Docs users essentially create images right from within the doc to supplement their homework, essays, research, or any other kind of writing. The feature is currently available to only paid Google Workspace accounts like Gemini Enterprise, Business, or Education/ Education Premium accounts, who also have the Google One AI Premium add-on.

ALSO READ: Google Gemini: A tutorial for beginners

The feature is also only limited to desktops for now, so smartphone users may still need to wait a while before they can start tossing graphics into their documents. This means while your iPhone 16 cannot do this trick yet, a laptop like the Dell Inspiron 15 should be able to.

The tool is also powered by Google’s Imagen 3 text-to-image model, which means fewer distracting elements and better lighting and details in generated images.

How to use Google Docs image generator

Google Docs users who have access to the image generator feature can use it in a couple of easy steps. Begin by heading to the ‘Insert’ tab, and click on the ‘Image’ option. Find the ‘Help me create an image’ option and clicking on this should open a panel where you can enter your prompts.

The tool can create images in square, horizontal or even vertical aspect ratios, each of which then allows for further tuning once embedded in the document. Now while the feature is still locked to paid users, those who want to get similar results for free can also check out our list of 5 free alternatives for quick AI image generation.