Google's latest AI project has entered the territory of Pinterest with the announcement of Mixboard, a new tool that enables anyone to create AI-powered mood boards.
This service competes directly with Pinterest's collage feature, where users traditionally build mood boards using their favorite Pins and images.
With Mixboard, however, users don't need an existing collection of images to spark inspiration. Instead, they can initiate projects using text prompts, allowing the AI to generate creative visuals. Pre-filled templates are also available for those needing a starting point.
Mixboard is currently available in public beta in the U.S. via Google Labs.
After generating AI images, users can request edits, minor adjustments, or even merge multiple images together. This functionality is powered by Google's new image editing model, Nano Banana, which has gained popularity for its ability to handle complex edits and create photorealistic outputs.
Following its release, Google's Gemini AI app pushed ChatGPT out of the top spot in the U.S. App Store.
With Mixboard, Google is tapping into the growing demand for Nano Banana by integrating it into its own suite of tools, suggesting applications in home decor, design, event themes, and DIY projects that combine both text and visuals.
Younger audiences have shown growing interest in digital mood boarding.
Pinterest previously achieved viral success with its standalone collage app Shuffles, which became popular among Gen Z for creating creative TikTok videos. The feature was later integrated into Pinterest's main platform. Other startups have also explored this space, including the now-defunct Landing and AI-powered creative app Verse—which appears to have inspired Mixboard. Meanwhile, Depop has recently launched a collage tool to help users design and sell fashion collections.
Google says Mixboard mood boards can also be reimagined through features that allow users to "regenerate" images for new ideas or ask the AI to produce "more like this." Additionally, the AI can generate descriptive text based on images added to a user's board.
