Google's Nano Banana 2.1 image model goes generally available.
Google released Nano Banana 2.1, an efficient image generation and editing model with better text rendering, up to 4K output and up to 14 reference images. It keeps up to four characters consistent across images.
Why it matters
Sharper text and character consistency make AI-generated ad visuals and social assets more production-ready.
Related trends.
AIUAE shoppers want AI to find deals, not to check out
YouGov says 59% of UAE adults plan to shop Dubai Shopping Festival 2026. Three in four likely shoppers will use AI, mostly for prices and reviews, but only about one in five would let it fill baskets or pay.
Why it mattersAI shopping assistants win research moments first; trust for agent checkout still has to be earned.
AdvertisingGoogle Ads lets advertisers cap Display and Search partner spend
Search, Shopping and Performance Max campaigns can now set Display and Search partners to low priority and cap them as a share of daily budget, down to zero. Google only promises best effort, and API support comes later.
Why it mattersMore control over low-quality inventory, though the cap isn't a hard guarantee.
AIOpenAI seeks an agency lead to make ChatGPT ads a regular buy
OpenAI is recruiting an Agency Partner in New York to build joint business plans with holding companies and independents. It wants ChatGPT ads to move past pilots; the company said in August they had hit a $1B annualised run rate.
Why it mattersExpect agency deals and spend commitments for ChatGPT ads, the way search and social are bought today.
