Google Gemini overtakes ChatGPT as No. 1 app after viral ‘Nano Banana’ 3D portrait feature

Gemini’s viral ‘Nano Banana’ AI image editing tool has turned Google’s AI app into the most downloaded app globally, surpassing ChatGPT on both the App Store and Play Store.

In a major shake-up of the AI app market, Google’s Gemini app has officially overtaken OpenAI’s ChatGPT to claim the top spot on both Apple’s App Store and the Google Play Store. The sudden surge in popularity follows the rollout of Gemini’s now-viral Nano Banana feature, a playful AI-powered tool that transforms regular photos into stunning 3D toy-like portraits.

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According to industry reports, Gemini recorded over 23 million new users between August 26 and September 9, a staggering figure that reflects the feature’s widespread appeal. During the same period, users generated over 500 million images, making Nano Banana one of the fastest-adopted AI image trends of 2025.

The feature’s popularity has been amplified by viral posts across social media platforms, including Instagram and X, where users have been sharing their 3D avatar-style portraits. Experts note that this mirrors ChatGPT’s own surge in late 2023, when AI-powered image generation like Ghibli-style art took over timelines worldwide.

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One of the key drivers behind this success is accessibility. Gemini allows free-tier users to generate or edit up to 100 images per day, while Google AI Plan subscribers can create up to 1,000 images daily. This generous free limit has significantly boosted engagement and downloads within just 10 days.

For those eager to join the trend, using the Nano Banana feature is simple:

1.    Open the Google Gemini app on your smartphone.
2.    Tap the image feature marked with a banana emoji.
3.    Upload a photo using the plus icon.
4.    Add a short text prompt describing your desired 3D look.
5.    Let Gemini work its magic and download the finished image.

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