The fastest way to get GIFs on Android is to use the built-in GIF search in your keyboard. Gboard and Samsung Keyboard both let you search and send animated GIFs directly from the Tenor library, which is the primary method for sending GIFs in most apps without installing extra software.
How to get GIFs on Android with your keyboard
Your keyboard is the most universal tool for sending GIFs across any messaging or social app. Both Gboard (Google Keyboard) and Samsung Keyboard include a dedicated GIF search feature that pulls from the Tenor library. This method works in almost any text field and requires an internet connection to search the library.
- Open any app where you can type, like a messaging or social media app.
- Tap the text input field to bring up your keyboard.
- On Gboard, tap the emoji icon (smiley face) at the top of the keyboard, then tap the "GIF" tab. On Samsung Keyboard, tap the emoji icon and then the "GIF" button.
- Use the search bar to find a specific GIF or browse trending options.
- Tap a GIF to insert it into your message, then send it normally.
Note that the "Make a GIF" feature, which previously allowed you to create GIFs directly in Gboard using the camera, was removed in a prior update due to low usage.
How to send GIFs in popular messaging apps
- Open a chat conversation.
- Tap the emoji icon (smiley face) next to the message box.
- Tap the "GIF" tab at the bottom of the emoji panel.
- Browse or search for a GIF, then tap it to select and send.
Google Chat
- Open the Google Chat app or the Gmail app and tap "Chat" at the bottom.
- Open a direct message or space.
- At the bottom, tap the "Action menu" and then "GIF".
- Tap a GIF to send it.
You can also use the Giphy app directly within Google Chat. In a direct message with the Giphy app or in a space, enter a search query like "cats" or "funny:" to add the first matching GIF. In spaces, use @Giphy query or /Giphy query. To get a group of 25 GIFs to choose from, enter choose query (or @Giphy choose query in spaces). You can change the content rating of GIFs by entering rating (or @Giphy rating in spaces) followed by [Y,G,PG,PG-13,R].
Google Messages (Selfie GIFs)
- Open a conversation in Google Messages.
- Touch and hold the "Camera" icon in the message bar.
- Record a short video (around 3 seconds).
- Release your finger to send the selfie GIF.
How to find GIFs on social media platforms
Most social media platforms include a built-in GIF button when creating posts or stories. On Instagram, tap the camera icon to create a Story or post, then swipe up to access the GIF library and search by keyword. On Facebook, tap the "What's on your mind?" box and then the smiley face icon to open the GIF library. On Twitter, tap the GIF icon below the text input field when composing a tweet to search or explore trending GIFs. These buttons connect directly to GIF libraries, so no extra apps are needed.
How to use third-party apps for more GIFs
Dedicated apps like GIPHY and Tenor give you access to a much wider library of GIFs and allow you to share them to any platform. Download the app from the Google Play Store, then browse categories or use the search feature to find a GIF. Once you find one, tap it to open it and share it directly to your favorite messaging app or social media platform. These apps also let you save GIFs to your device for later use.
How to create your own gif on a Samsung phone
Samsung phones let you create a GIF from multiple photos directly in the Gallery app.
- Open the Gallery app.
- Long press on an image to select multiple photos.
- Tap the More icon (three vertical dots).
- Select "Create" and then "GIF".
- Review and edit the created GIF image.
- Tap "Save" when ready.
You can also create a GIF directly with the camera app. In PHOTO mode, swipe down on the Shutter button to take a burst shot. This burst can then be converted into a GIF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get GIFs on my Android device without installing anything?
Yes. Most Android phones come with Gboard or Samsung Keyboard pre-installed, both of which have built-in GIF search. Many messaging and social media apps also include their own GIF libraries, so you can send GIFs immediately without any extra downloads.
Why do some GIFs not send or appear broken in messages?
Some messaging apps compress or reduce the quality of GIFs before sending them. Additionally, some platforms may limit the file size or length of GIFs that can be shared. An internet connection is required to search and send GIFs from libraries like Tenor or GIPHY.
How can I use emojis and custom keyboards to enhance my GIF experience?
Many GIF keyboards, like Gboard, also include emoji search and custom keyboard themes. You can switch between emojis, stickers, and GIFs from the same keyboard interface, making it easy to mix reactions in a single conversation. For help with understanding what each emoji means, check out common emoji meanings & text abbreviations.
Can I save a GIF from a message to my phone?
Yes. In most apps, you can long-press on a received GIF and select "Save" or "Download" to save it to your device's gallery. You can then share it later or use it in other apps.
Is there a way to delete text messages on Android for both sides to free up space for GIFs?
Standard SMS and MMS messages cannot be deleted from the recipient's phone. However, in apps like WhatsApp or Google Messages, you can delete a message for everyone within a short time window after sending it. This can help manage storage if you are sending large GIF files.
Can I make a video into a live photo on iOS or Android and use it like a GIF?
However, you can convert a short video into a GIF using apps like GIPHY or by using the Samsung Gallery's "Create" feature described above, which achieves a similar animated effect. Android 9+ (API level 28) has built-in support for animated GIF files for developers.
