Cover Image Generation Now an Option in the DEV Editor

We're happy to roll out a new feature today: Prompt-driven image generation, built directly into the post editor. This is now available on DEV and all other subforems we host. (Self-hosted instances of our open-source Forem project can use it if they bring their own key).

We've seen many of you already using AI-generated images for your articles. Our goal is to make this process more straightforward and integrate it directly into your writing workflow.

Here’s a quick look at how it works and what's under the hood.

Key Features & Details

• Community-driven Vibe: To help align with our community aesthetic, we've added a custom system prompt that generates images with a somewhat shared overall aesthetic and design language. We have chosen "retro" feel by default to match an artistry we very much enjoy. We might have fun with this and tweak it for special occasions (like Halloween), but we promise not to overdo it.
• The Tech: We're using the gemini-2.5-flash-image model (aka "Nano Banana"). We'll be tracking future upgrades to this model to keep improving the experience.
• Open Source First: We love being open source! You'll find a direct link to the feature's source code right in the generation modal. We're planning to do this more often across the site. (You can also check it out here).

Performance and What's Next

We've tested this thoroughly and find it fast enough to be a fun and useful tool. To manage load, we do have rate limiting in place. We'll be monitoring real-world use and may tweak these limits as we see how things go.

While this is designed to streamline things our members are already doing if they so choose, we should all recognize this technology as powerful and potentially harmful. All community moderation applies and we will be as thoughtful as possible in iterative improvements going forward — especially with regards to individual and communal wellbeing.

Give it a try on your next post and let us know what you think!