Google adds AI image generation to Chrome browser, side panel option for virtual assistant

Google is empowering its Chrome browser with the ability to alter pictures and introducing a side panel for a virtual assistant to help with online tasks as part of its push to turbocharge its of digital services with more artificial intelligence technology. The features rolling out include making Google’s photo-editing tool, Nano Banana, which will be available to Chrome’s logged-in users on desktop computers in the U.S. The browser’s expansion will also offer an option for Chrome’s U.S. users to open a side panel so an AI-powered assistant can help with an assortment of chores while a user remains engaged with other online tasks.