WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the fun features of WhatsApp is the ability to send GIFs in conversations. GIFs (Graphics Interchange Format) are short, soundless video clips that loop continuously. Sending GIFs on WhatsApp allows users to express emotions and reactions quickly and easily. But how exactly do GIFs work within WhatsApp? There are a few technical details that enable this fun, engaging feature.
File Format
GIFs are image files that use lossless compression to store multiple frames of animation or short video clips. Unlike videos, GIFs do not have sound. The GIF format allows files to store and display multiple bitmap images in a compressed format. This makes the file size small enough to easily send back and forth on messaging platforms.
The GIF format stores image data for multiple frames in a single file. It uses LZW compression which compresses data by identifying repeated patterns. GIFs also employ “interframe” compression which means they only store pixel changes between each frame, rather than entire frames. This further reduces file size.
GIFs can store up to 256 different colors per frame. The color limitations and compression allow these animated images to have reasonably small file sizes that work well for sharing on messaging apps.
Sending GIFs on WhatsApp
When a user sends a GIF within WhatsApp, the GIF file is transmitted from their device to WhatsApp’s servers and then to the recipient’s device. WhatsApp’s servers do not apply any additional compression or alteration to the GIF file. The GIF file that is selected and sent is transmitted in its original form to the recipient.
This allows GIFs to retain their small file size and fast transmission speed. It also maintains the image quality and number of frames that were originally encoded in the GIF file. No optimization or changes are applied by WhatsApp’s servers during the transmission process.
Displaying GIFs
On the recipient’s device, the WhatsApp app receives the GIF file and decodes it for display. The app parses the GIF file format to extract the frame images and associated display instructions like timing. WhatsApp then leverages the native iOS or Android platform capabilities to display the animated GIF.
GIF display relies on native OS rendering, rather than in-app engines. On iOS, WhatsApp uses UIImage and UIImageView classes to display GIFs. On Android, it utilizes generic GIF decoders built into Android to render the animation.
This allows WhatsApp to efficiently display GIFs without needing to build custom GIF rendering capabilities directly into their app. It also results in a smooth, fast GIF viewing experience optimized by the native platform.
Common GIF Use Cases on WhatsApp
People use GIFs on WhatsApp to quickly express reactions during conversations. Here are some of the most common situations where sending a GIF communicates more than text alone:
Responding to Exciting News
When a friend shares great news like getting a new job or graduating, responding with a congratulatory GIF conveys more excitement. The animation and imagery amplifies the emotion.
Reacting to a Joke
GIFs are great for reacting to funny messages or memes. Sending a laughing or amused GIF adds humor and personality.
Saying Good Morning
Rather than a plain “Good morning” text, sending an upbeat, animated GIF helps start the day on a bright note.
Expressing Agreement
When you strongly agree with what someone said, a GIF gives more emphasis to your alignment than text alone.
Saying Thank You
For gratitude, GIFs with cartoons bowing or giving flowers add charm to saying thanks.
Flirting
For flirtatious conversations, GIFs with kissing couples, hearts, or amorous gestures spice things up.
Wishing Happy Birthday
For birthdays, GIFs with cakes, balloons, and confetti deliver excitement.
Saying Goodbye
At the end of a chat, sending a waving hand or kissing goodbye GIF gives a more personal sign-off.
GIF Sources on WhatsApp
So where do users find GIFs to send on WhatsApp? There are a few ways to access GIFs within the app:
Built-In GIF Search
WhatsApp has a built-in GIF search tool, allowing users to browse and search a database of trending and popular GIFs without leaving the app. Users can enter a term like “thank you” and find relevant animations.
Third-Party Keyboards
Many third-party keyboard apps like Gboard offer integrated GIF search, making it easy to find GIFs to send. Users can install these keyboards and seamlessly access GIFs within WhatsApp.
Other Apps and Websites
There are dedicated GIF apps and websites that users can browse outside WhatsApp, then copy and paste GIFs into chats. Popular sources include Tenor, Giphy, and Imgur.
Local GIF Files
Users can save GIF files they find online into their camera roll. These locally saved GIFs can then be sent through WhatsApp like photos or videos.
Sending GIFs in WhatsApp Chats
Now that we’ve covered the technical details, let’s walk through how users actually send GIFs in WhatsApp chats:
Step 1: Open GIF Interface
In an active chat, tap the emoji icon to the left of the message compose box. This will open the media tray. Tap the GIF button (a square icon with a looping arrow) to open the GIF interface.
Step 2: Search for a GIF
In the GIF interface you can browse trending GIFs, search keywords, or scroll through categories to find the perfect GIF. Tap a GIF to preview the animation.
Step 3: Send the GIF
Once you find your desired GIF, simply tap the send icon below the preview to insert it into your message compose box. You can add text before or after the GIF in your message.
Step 4: Send the Message
When ready, hit the send icon as normal to send your GIF and message to the recipient. The GIF will appear in the chat thread, animating each time it loops.
That’s all it takes to brighten up a WhatsApp conversation with a fun, expressive GIF!
GIF File Size Limits on WhatsApp
WhatsApp does limit the file size of GIFs in order to conserve data usage and prevent transfer issues. Here are the maximum GIF sizes allowed on WhatsApp:
Android
On Android devices, WhatsApp supports GIF files up to 30MB in size. However, it compresses any GIFs larger than 5MB during transmission. This compression lowers quality but allows oversized GIFs to be sent.
iOS
The limit is stricter on iOS. WhatsApp only allows GIF files up to 100KB to be sent on iPhones. Larger GIFs are automatically compressed before sending to meet this limit.
Web/Desktop
On WhatsApp Web and Desktop, the file size limit is the same as the originating mobile device. GIFs sent from iPhones will be limited to 100KB. GIFs sent from Androids can be up to 30MB.
The constrained file sizes help WhatsApp deliver smooth performance, especially on mobile networks. But it means users may notice quality loss on larger GIFs.
Troubleshooting GIF Sending Issues
Despite the file size limits, sometimes GIF sending issues still occur on WhatsApp. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Problem: GIF Not Animating
If a sent GIF appears static instead of animating, the file may have been too large and over-compressed. Ask the sender to resend a smaller version of the GIF. Also check internet connectivity issues are not preventing full file transfer.
Problem: Can’t Find GIF Button
If the GIF button is missing in the media tray, make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Older versions may not fully support GIF sending. Update the app to resolve.
Problem: Can’t Select Certain GIFs
Some GIFs retrieved from third-party keyboards can not be selected to send. This is likely due to file size or aspect ratio issues. Try finding the GIF through WhatsApp’s built-in search instead.
Problem: GIFs Slow to Send/Receive
Large GIFs or poor network connections can cause delays in GIF sending. Ask the sender to use shorter GIFs. Switching to a stronger WiFi or cellular data connection can improve transfer speeds as well.
Problem: Can’t Find GIF Button on Desktop
The GIF button may be missing on WhatsApp Desktop if the paired mobile device has an older app version. Updating to the latest WhatsApp version on your phone should make the button appear on desktop.
Tips for Using GIFs Effectively on WhatsApp
Now that you know how GIF sending works technically, here are some tips to use GIFs effectively in your WhatsApp conversations:
Use GIFs Sparingly
Aim for balance – sprinkle in some GIFs to amplify key messages, but don’t overdo it. Too many GIFs can seem excessive.
Be Responsive
When someone sends you a GIF, respond with a fitting reaction GIF to keep the conversation lively. But follow up with a written response too.
Match the Tone
Choose GIFs that match the overall tone of your conversations. Don’t send funny GIFs in serious chats.
Keep Them Short
Look for GIFs under 3MB in size and under 3 seconds long. This prevents quality loss from compression and keeps data use down.
See How Others Use GIFs
Notice when your WhatsApp contacts use GIFs effectively. This can inspire appropriate ways to incorporate GIFs into your own chats.
Favor Quality Over Quantity
One great GIF is better than five mediocre ones. Take time to find just the right GIF to express yourself.
The Benefits of Using GIFs on WhatsApp
Using GIFs on WhatsApp has many communication benefits:
Adds Personality
GIFs let you express your unique personality and mood beyond plain text.
Conveys Emotion
GIFs can instantly share the emotions you want to get across.
Improves Engagement
GIFs grab attention and make conversations more fun and engaging.
Enhances Reactions
Responding with a reaction GIF instead of “Haha” makes interactions more vivid.
Livens Up Greetings
Hello and goodbye GIFs add energy versus repetitive text greetings.
Saves Time
The right GIF can replace typing out a lengthy text explanation.
Breaks Up Walls of Text
Strategically placed GIFs make long messages feel more scannable and digestible.
Eases Awkwardness
Humorous GIFs can defuse uncomfortable pauses in conversation.
WhatsApp GIF Innovation
As GIFs continue growing in popularity on messaging platforms, WhatsApp continues innovating and improving the experience:
Expanded File Size Limits
Limits have become less constraining over time as file compression and network capacity improves. Expect expanded limits in future updates.
New GIF Categories
WhatsApp frequently updates its built-in GIF database with new categories tailored to trending topics and current events.
Faster GIF Sending
Performance optimizations make sharing GIFs feel more instantaneous compared to earlier versions.
Forwarding GIFs
Users can now forward GIFs to multiple contacts at once, spreading the animated joy.
QR Code Sharing
GIFs can be shared via QR code for users who don’t have mobile numbers stored.
Enhanced GIF Creation
WhatsApp is exploring ways for users to create and upload their own custom doodle GIFs within chats.
The Future of GIFs on WhatsApp
GIF innovation will continue as the format grows more engrained into messaging apps. Here are some potential GIF features we may see in the future on WhatsApp:
GIF stickers
Similar to emoji stickers but animated. Users could create and share personalized GIF stickers.
Longer GIFs
As compression and network capabilities improve, length limits for GIFs will likely expand further.
AR GIFs
Augmented reality GIFs could allow inserting animations into real-world scenes during video chats.
GIF mashups
Mixing, overlaying, and appending multiple GIFs together into a new creation.
Live GIFs
Short animated GIFs automatically created from the camera during video calls.
GIF captions
Text captions could be programmatically added to GIFs, making them more accessible.
GIF filters
Fun artistic filters tailored for GIFs, like vintage, psychedelic, pixel art.
GIF analytics
Usage metrics to see which GIFs are shared most in your circles and topics.
Conclusion
WhatsApp GIF support provides a fun way to make conversations richer. Under the hood, GIFs utilize compressed image formats and mobile OS rendering to deliver the animation experience. As GIF innovation continues, we can expect more creative ways to express ourselves with these bite-sized moving images on WhatsApp and beyond. The concise, emotive nature of GIFs make them a perfect match for messaging, and an ideal way to connect visually across our relationships.