How to Generate AI Images in Google Search With a Text Description

Dedicated AI image generators like DALL-E and Midjourney popularized the idea of creating images from text descriptions. And several other tools and platforms have emerged since then, offering different ways to create images with artificial intelligence.

But what if you could generate AI images directly in Google Search? That’s exactly what Google is experimenting with withing its AI-powered Search Generative Experience (SGE) feature.

screenshot of Google AI image generator result
Screenshot by John Awa-abuon

Google launched its SGE feature in August 2023, providing users with answers to their queries right on the search page. Google has now expanded its SGE abilities to include AI image generation.

The update allows users to create images with generative AI by typing a text description in Google Search. You describe your idea, and SGE will provide up to four generated images in the search results. You can then tap on any of those images and edit the description further to add more details and refine your vision.

To use Google’s Search Generative Experience, you need to opt into the feature first. You can do so on the Google Search Labs page. SGE is currently only available to US residents over 18 years old.

Once you’re opted in, you can start creating images with SGE by following these steps:

1. Go to Google.com and type in a description of what you want to see in the search box. For example, “draw an image of a flying car.”

screenshot of google homepage with image prompt
Screenshot by John Awa-abuon

2. Press Enter or click on the search icon. You’ll see up to four generated images in the results.

screenshot of Google AI image generator result of flying car
Screenshot by John Awa-abuon

3. Click on any of the images to see an expanded version of your query. You can also edit the query by clicking the Edit button in the expanded image view. Here, you can change or add more details to your query.

screenshot of Google AI image generator result of flying car expanded result page
Screenshot by John Awa-abuon

4. When you’re happy with your image, you can download it by tapping Export > Download. You can also export it to your Google Drive by clicking Export > Google Drive.

screenshot of Google AI image generator result of flying car showing export options
Screenshot by John Awa-abuon

Some Tips for Using Google’s SGE to Generate AI Images

To get the most out of this feature, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Structure your query as a prompt. Google still functions as a search engine and brings up results around the web for your query. Structure your query as a prompt by beginning with verbs like “create,” “draw,” “make,” “generate,” etc., to activate Google’s AI image generator.
  • Have fun and be creative. SGE is not only a useful tool, but also a fun way to explore your imagination and creativity. You can try generating images that are funny, surreal, or impossible in real life. Need inspiration? Our AI art prompt ideas article can help.
  • Be respectful. SGE is a fun and useful tool, but it’s not meant to generate harmful or offensive content. If your query is potentially harmful, SGE will refuse to generate any images and ask you to try something else.

Generate AI Images Quickly and Easily

Google’s SGE is great for anyone who needs or wants to create images quickly and easily. Whether you need an image for work, school, or personal use, or you just want to have some fun and express yourself, this feature can help you turn your words into images quickly and easily.

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