GIFs have taken the internet by storm. They are a fun way to express an emotion or to illustrate something in a humorous way. With so many GIFs available, it can be frustrating to not be able to send one in a text message. If you’re an iPhone user, you may have experienced this frustration. But, there is good news! It is possible to send GIFs in a text message on an iPhone. In this blog, we’ll show you how.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we get into the methods, there are a few things you’ll need to make sure you have:
- An iPhone
- iOS 10 or later
- The Messages app
- An active internet connection
What Requires Your Focus?
The methods we’ll be discussing require a bit of focus and attention to detail. You’ll want to make sure you are following the steps correctly, otherwise, you may run into some issues. Additionally, some of the methods involve downloading third-party apps, so it’s important to make sure you are downloading from a trusted source.
Method 1: Using the GIF Keyboard in Messages
Pre-installed on iPhones with iOS 10 or later is the GIF keyboard in Messages. Here’s how to use it:
- Open your Messages app and start a new message or open an existing message thread.
- Tap on the "A" icon beside the text field.
- Scroll left or right until you find the "GIF" button and tap on it.
- You can either choose from the trending GIFs or search for one using the search bar at the top.
- Select the GIF you want to use, add a message if desired, and hit the send button.
Pros:
- Pre-installed on iPhone with iOS 10 or later.
- Quick and convenient.
Cons:
- The GIF selection can be limited.
- Not customizable.
Method 2: Using GIPHY
Another option for sending GIFs in a text message is to use the GIPHY app. GIPHY is a popular platform for finding and sharing GIFs. Here’s how to do it:
- Download and install the GIPHY app from the App Store.
- Open the Messages app and start a new message or open an existing message thread.
- Tap on the "A" icon beside the text field.
- Select "GIPHY" from the list of apps.
- Search for the GIF you want using the search bar or browse different categories.
- Select the GIF you want to use, add a message if desired, and hit the send button.
Pros:
- Large selection of GIFs available.
- Customizable with editing options.
Cons:
- Requires downloading and installing a third-party app.
- May include ads depending on the version of GIPHY used.
Method 3: Creating and Sending a Custom GIF with GIF Maker
If you have a particular video or live photo you want to turn into a GIF, you can use the GIF Maker app to create a custom GIF. Here’s how:
- Download and install the GIF Maker app from the App Store.
- Open the app and select "Video to GIF" or "Live Photos to GIF," depending on what you want to use.
- Select the video or live photo you want to use to create the GIF.
- Edit the GIF with the available tools, such as trimming or adding filters.
- Save the GIF to your camera roll.
- Open the Messages app and start a new message or open an existing message thread.
- Tap on the camera icon beside the text field and select the GIF saved to your camera roll.
- Hit the send button.
Pros:
- Allows for customization and creation of unique GIFs.
- No watermark included with the GIF.
Cons:
- Requires downloading and installing a third-party app.
- May take more time to create and send compared to other methods.
Why Can’t I Send GIFs in a Text on iPhone?
There are a few reasons why you may not be able to send GIFs in a text message on an iPhone:
- You may not be using iOS 10 or later, which includes the GIF keyboard in Messages.
- You may not have an active internet connection.
- You may not have the Messages app installed or you have disabled it.
To fix these issues, make sure you have an iPhone with iOS 10 or later, have an active internet connection, and have the Messages app installed and enabled.
Suggestions
If you’re looking to spice up your text messages with GIFs on your iPhone, we suggest giving these methods a try. Experiment with different apps and search terms to find the perfect GIF to convey your message.
FAQs
Q: Can I send GIFs in a text message without downloading an app?
A: Yes, you can use the GIF keyboard in Messages.
Q: How do I save a GIF from a website to my iPhone?
A: Press and hold on the GIF until a menu appears. Select "Save Image" from the options.
Q: Can I turn off the auto-play feature for GIFs in Messages?
A: Yes, go to Settings > Messages and toggle off "Auto-Play Videos and Live Photos."
Q: Can I stop a GIF from playing in Messages?
A: Yes, tap and hold on the GIF to pause it.
Q: Can I send a GIF to more than one person in a group message?
A: Yes, select the "Details" button in the upper right corner of the message thread, and then select "Add Contact."
Conclusion
Sending GIFs in a text message on an iPhone may seem difficult at first, but there are several methods available. From using the built-in GIF keyboard in Messages to creating custom GIFs with third-party apps, there is a method for anyone. With a little practice, you’ll be sending GIF-filled text messages in no time!
