Google’s latest Gemini 3 update brings a major upgrade to AI image generation. With the Nano Banana Pro image generator, AI-created images are now so realistic that it is often hard to distinguish them from real photos. To address this, Google has introduced an extension that detects hidden watermarks, helping users verify the authenticity of images.
SynthID Markers Make AI Images Detectable
Every image produced by Gemini 3 Pro is embedded with invisible SynthID markers. These markers indicate that the image was generated using Google’s AI engine. While they are not visible to the human eye, the SynthID extension in the Gemini app can detect them and confirm whether an image was AI-generated.
Users can simply open the Gemini app or website, upload the image, and ask verification questions such as:
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“Was this created or edited with Google AI?”
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“Is this image real?”
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“Is this AI-generated?”
Alternatively, typing “@synthid” after uploading an image will trigger the verification process. Google emphasizes that these markers are designed to ensure accountability while preserving the realism of AI-generated visuals.
Limitations and Detection Tips
While Gemini can reliably detect images created with Nano Banana Pro, it cannot fully verify content generated by other AI models, such as those from ChatGPT or alternative image generators. Despite this limitation, Gemini can still analyze images in detail to identify subtle flaws.
The AI highlights visual inconsistencies, such as hair blending issues, symmetry errors, or unnatural textures. It also evaluates the overall aesthetic quality to help users spot red flags, even if the image lacks a SynthID marker. This combination of watermark detection and visual analysis provides a powerful tool for distinguishing AI-generated content from authentic images.
With the Gemini 3 update, Google strengthens its approach to safe and transparent AI image use while offering users the tools needed to verify visual authenticity in a digital world where AI visuals are becoming increasingly lifelike.
