New rival to Pinterest
Google has unveiled Mixboard, an AI-powered software that allows users to create digital mood boards, stepping directly into Pinterest’s territory. Unlike Pinterest’s collage feature, which relies on users saving and curating existing images, Mixboard lets anyone generate boards from scratch using text prompts. The service is now available in the U.S. as a public beta through Google Labs.
Powered by Nano Banana
Mixboard integrates Google’s new image editing model, Nano Banana, which has earned praise for handling complex edits and producing realistic visuals. Users can ask the AI to make adjustments, combine different images, or regenerate boards for fresh inspiration. Pre-populated boards are also available to help users who need a starting point for their creative process.
According to Google, the tool can be applied to a wide range of brainstorming needs, including home décor, event themes, DIY projects, and fashion ideas. In addition to images, the AI can also generate text based on the visuals users create.
Competition in digital creativity
The launch highlights Google’s effort to compete in a space where Pinterest has long dominated. Pinterest previously gained viral attention with Shuffles, a standalone collage app popular among Gen Z on TikTok, before folding its features into the main platform. Other startups, such as Landing and Verse, have also explored AI-driven mood board tools, though not all have endured. Depop recently introduced a collage tool for styling and selling fashion collections.
Access and community
Mixboard can be accessed through labs.google/mixboard, with a Discord community available for users to share projects and feedback. The release follows the rapid rise of Google’s Gemini AI app, which recently displaced ChatGPT from the top of the U.S. App Store charts. By weaving Nano Banana into its own ecosystem, Google is positioning Mixboard as a creative hub for younger audiences seeking visually engaging tools.