WhatsApp has become 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 chats and groups. GIFs allow users to express emotions and reactions quickly and easily. But how exactly do WhatsApp users get access to GIFs? There are a few different ways people can find and send GIFs on WhatsApp.
Using the Built-In GIF Search
The simplest way to get GIFs is to use the built-in GIF search tool in WhatsApp. When typing a message in the chat bar, tap the emoji icon next to the text field. This will open up the emoji keyboard. At the bottom of the keyboard is the GIF icon, which looks like a movie strip.
Tapping the GIF icon will open the GIF search tool. Here you can browse popular GIF categories like Reactions, Sports, Stickers, and more. You can also search for specific GIFs by using keywords. For example, searching “good morning” will bring up relevant good morning themed GIFs.
The GIF search tool provides a decent selection of GIFs, though the library is somewhat limited compared to other apps. But it’s a quick and easy way to find GIFs without leaving the WhatsApp app.
Downloading GIF Apps
While WhatsApp’s built-in GIF options are handy, you can greatly expand your GIF library by downloading dedicated GIF apps. There are many excellent apps that provide thousands of high-quality GIFs to choose from.
Some of the most popular GIF apps used with WhatsApp include:
Tenor
Tenor is one of the largest GIF libraries available. It has over millions of GIFs covering emotions, movies, TV shows, sports, and more. You can easily search for GIFs using keywords. Tenor also recommends trending GIFs on their homepage.
Giphy
Giphy is another massive GIF database. They partner directly with content creators to provide a diverse range of high-quality GIFs. Helpful categories and themes make browsing easy. And their algorithmic recommendations help you discover new GIFs related to your interests.
GIF Keyboard
GIF Keyboard isn’t just an app, it replaces your phone’s default keyboard. This allows you to search for and insert GIFs from virtually any app, including WhatsApp. It also has handy features like recently used GIFs, trending GIFs, and personalized GIF suggestions.
The great thing about these apps is that they make adding GIFs to WhatsApp chats super quick and easy. You can browse the GIF libraries, then with just a tap send them directly into your WhatsApp messages.
Websites for Finding GIFs
There are also many websites that offer a wide selection of GIFs to choose from. When you find one you like, you can save or download it then add it to WhatsApp.
Some top GIF websites include:
Gifer
Gifer has a collection of curated GIFs as well as user uploaded creations. Helpful tags and categories make it easy to zero in on the perfect GIF. Downloading is as simple as right clicking the GIF image.
Gfycat
Gfycat is a GIF hosting site with user submitted GIFs covering almost every topic imaginable. Their website and mobile apps allow for easy browsing and downloading.
Gipht
Gipht aggregates GIFs from other websites like Reddit, Imgur, and Tumblr. So you can find trending viral GIFs in one place. Downloading is just a click away.
The advantage of websites is you can browse them on desktop to find high-quality GIFs, then save them to your phone before sharing on WhatsApp.
Creating Your Own GIFs
For the ultimate personalization, you can create your own animated GIFs to use on WhatsApp. There are many free and paid apps that allow you to make custom GIFs from videos, photos, etc.
Some apps for GIF creation include:
Kapwing
Kapwing’s online and mobile tools make it easy to turn videos into GIFs. You can trim clips, crop, optimize file size, add text and effects, and more.
Giphy Cam
Giphy Cam lets you record short videos then convert them to GIFs instantly. It has fun editing features like stickers, frames, filters, and effects to make your GIFs unique.
GIF Maker
GIF Maker by InShot is a robust app for DIY GIF creation. You can animate photos or clips, add stylized text, adjust speed, and resize resolution.
Creating your own GIFs takes a bit more time and effort. But the end result is you get completely personalized GIFs to use for reacting in your WhatsApp conversations.
Sending GIFs in WhatsApp
Once you’ve found or created the perfect GIF, sending it in your WhatsApp chats is simple:
Mobile
– Open the WhatsApp chat where you want to send the GIF.
– Tap the attach button (paperclip icon) next to the text field.
– Select the GIF option.
– Browse your gallery and select the GIF you want to send.
– Tap the send button.
Desktop
– Open the WhatsApp chat.
– Click the attach button (paperclip icon) next to the message box.
– Click GIF.
– Select the GIF from your computer files or drag and drop it into WhatsApp.
– Hit enter or click send.
The GIF will be delivered and automatically animate for the recipient. Sending GIFs is a fun way to quickly share reactions, emotions, and moments with your WhatsApp contacts.
Tips for Using GIFs on WhatsApp
Here are some tips for getting the most out of GIFs in WhatsApp:
– Use GIFs sparingly. Too many can be distracting in chats.
– Don’t overuse the same GIFs over and over. Switch it up to keep things fresh.
– Make sure your GIFs are relevant to the conversation and mood.
– Consider creating your own GIFs for a more personal touch.
– Check the file size of GIFs before sending. Large GIFs can slow down chats.
– Favor recognizable GIFs featuring people, characters, objects, etc. Abstract GIFs can be confusing.
– Reply specifically to a message then add a reaction GIF so it’s clear what you’re reacting to.
– Add text along with your GIFs if needed to clarify your intent and meaning.
Conclusion
WhatsApp has become the #1 messaging app thanks to fun features like GIFs. There are many options for finding and sending great GIFs in your chats and groups. The built-in GIF search provides a starting point. Downloading dedicated GIF apps greatly expands your possibilities. Websites offer another GIF source. Or get creative and make your own personalized GIFs.
With the right GIFs, you can express emotions, joke around with friends, and react to conversations in a dynamic visual way. Just be sure to use them in the proper context and not overdo it. Follow these tips and GIFs can be a fun communication enhancement for all your WhatsApp chats.