How to Send GIFs in WhatsApp: A Comprehensive Guide

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to send a wide variety of content, including GIFs, to keep conversations lively and engaging. Here, we will guide you through the process of sending GIFs on both mobile and desktop platforms, as well as uploading your own GIFs.

Sending GIFs in WhatsApp

On Mobile iOS/Android: Open a Chat: Launch WhatsApp and select the chat where you want to send the GIF. Tap the Emoji Icon: In the text input field, tap the emoji icon usually located on the left. Select GIF: At the bottom of the emoji keyboard, tap the GIF option. Browse or Search for GIFs: You can browse popular GIFs or use the search bar to find a specific one. Select a GIF: Tap on the GIF you want to send. Send the GIF: You can add a caption if you wish, then tap the send button.

On Desktop WhatsApp Web/Desktop App: Open a Chat: Go to the chat where you want to send the GIF. Click on the Emoji Icon: In the text input area, click the smiley face icon. Select GIF: Click on the GIF option. Browse or Search for GIFs: You can scroll through or search for a specific GIF. Select and Send: Click on the GIF you want to send, or drag and drop it into the chat. Press Enter to send it.

Uploading Your Own GIF

If you have a GIF saved on your device, you can upload and share it as follows:

Open a Chat: Select the chat where you want to send the GIF. Tap the Attachment Icon: On mobile, tap the paperclip icon. Select Gallery/Photos: Choose the option to send a photo or video, then navigate to your GIF file. Send the GIF: After selecting the GIF, you can add a caption and then tap send.

Additional Tips

WhatsApp supports sending GIFs through a few different methods:

Sending a Video as a GIF

Elect a video by pressing the plus button on the left of the text box. Select Photo Video Library and choose what you want to convert. In the top right of the screen, you'll be able to pick between sending as a video and a GIF. If you select GIF, you'll be able to edit length as you would with a video.

Sending a Live Photo as a GIF

WhatsApp allows Live Photos as GIFs, but it will only work if you're sending it from a phone with 3D Touch. Before going to add a photo, find the one you want to convert but from here, you must 3D Touch your live photo so it pops out and scroll up to find “Select a GIF”. Live Photos are supported on the iPhone 6 and 7 as well as their Plus variants, as well as the iPhone SE. However, the SE does not support 3D Touch meaning they are unable to activate the option.

Copying and Pasting from the Internet

You can’t save GIFs on iOS and then send them from WhatsApp, but you can bypass this by copying and pasting.

If you find a GIF you like on the internet, copy it by holding down and selecting “Copy.” Then just paste it into the WhatsApp text field, and it will show up.

Using a GIF Keyboard

For truly high-level GIF use, you can download a keyboard with GIF support such as Giphy iGIF or Gboard. Download it from the App Store, open it, and follow the instructions. This includes giving the keyboard access in your settings menu. From there, select the keyboard in WhatsApp's chat window and you can copy and paste to load the GIF.

Conclusion: WhatsApp has made it easy to send GIFs, enhancing your messages with animated reactions. Whether you use pre-made GIFs or create your own, these tips will help you send GIFs seamlessly in your WhatsApp chats.

Note: Ensure you are using the latest version of WhatsApp for optimal functionality. We recommend downloading the latest app version from the App Store for the best experience.