How to Text a GIF on an iPhone or Android

This article explains how to text a GIF on iOS 10 and newer devices, Android devices, and the Google Gboard keyboard.

Send GIFs on iOS

GIFs can help express your thoughts or reactions with hilarious visuals or sometimes they're just silly or fun ways to communicate. Texting GIFs with an iPhone (or another iOS device) couldn't be easier. Apple built a GIF feature right into its Messages app, so selecting and sending the perfect GIF is a breeze.

1. Open the Messages app.

2. Tap on the Write icon (square with a pencil) in the upper-right corner.

3. Enter the name of the person you want to message.

   

4. Tap the App drawer button (triangle) on the left side.

5. Tap the #images button (magnifying glass) on the bottom.

6. Enter your search term for a GIF.

   

7. Tap the GIF you want to send.

8. Tap the Send (arrow pointing up) button.

   

Missing the Images Button in IOS?

If you are missing the #images button in your app drawer, do the following to install:

1. Tap the App drawer icon (triangle).

2. Then swipe left on the app drawer and tap the More button (…).

3. Tap Edit, then tap the plus sign (+) to add the #images app.

   

Send GIFs on Android

With Android devices, you have a few options for texting GIFs. Using the built-in Messages app is very similar to iPhone's Messages. The following steps work for Android Oreo and newer (unless otherwise stated).

Add a GIF From a Messaging App

The first method works directly from your messaging app.

1. Open the Apps drawer (if it’s not on your home screen).

2. Open Messages.

3. Tap the text bubble icon on the bottom of the screen.

4. Enter in the name of the person you want to text.

5. Select the Start button.

   

6. Select the built-in GIF button (smiley) which is located within the text entry field by tapping it.

   For Android Nougat: Tap the Smiley button, then tap the GIF button.

   You’ll get an option for stickers or GIFs to browse.

   Or, to find a specific GIF, tap the search button.

   

7. Enter in the text you desire, then swipe to find a GIF.

8. Tap the desired GIF.

9. Tap the Send button (looks like a paper airplane or triangle).

Add a GIF Using the Gboard Keyboard

If you have the Gboard keyboard by Google, there's another method to add a GIF.

1. Tap the smiley on the keyboard.

   

2. Swipe to browse stickers or GIFs (or enter search text for your desired GIF).

3. Tap to select the GIF you want.

4. Tap the Send button.