Sending GIFs on Snapchat chat can add a fun and animated touch to your conversations. GIFs are short, looping video clips that can express emotions or convey a specific message effectively. While Snapchat may not have a built-in GIF feature, there are several methods you can use to send GIFs on Snapchat chat using your iPhone. In this blog post, we will explore these methods and provide step-by-step instructions on how to send a GIF on Snapchat chat. So let’s get started!
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Sending GIFs on Snapchat Chat
Snapchat chat does not have a direct feature to send GIFs within the app. However, there are alternative methods you can utilize to share GIFs with your friends on Snapchat. These methods involve using third-party apps, keyboard extensions, or GIF search engines to find and send GIFs through Snapchat chat. We will explore each of these methods in detail and provide you with the necessary steps to send a GIF successfully.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods, here are a few things you should prepare for to ensure a smooth process of sending GIFs on Snapchat chat:
1. A reliable internet connection: Make sure you are connected to the internet either through Wi-Fi or mobile data.
2. The Snapchat app: Ensure that you have the latest version of the Snapchat app installed on your iPhone.
3. Third-party apps or keyboard extensions: Depending on the method you choose, you may need to install third-party apps or update your keyboard extensions to include GIF functionality.
Now that you are ready, let’s explore the different methods you can use to send a GIF on Snapchat chat.
Method 1: Using a GIF Keyboard App
Sending a GIF on Snapchat chat can be made easy with the help of specialized GIF keyboard apps. These apps provide a vast collection of GIFs that you can search and share through various messaging platforms, including Snapchat. Here’s how you can use a GIF keyboard app to send a GIF on Snapchat chat:
1. Open the App Store on your iPhone and search for a GIF keyboard app. Some popular options include GIPHY, Tenor, and GIFwrapped.
2. Download and install the GIF keyboard app of your choice.
3. Open the Snapchat app on your iPhone and start a chat conversation with a friend.
4. Switch to the GIF keyboard app by tapping on the Globe icon or the Emoji icon on the iPhone keyboard.
5. Search for a specific GIF using keywords or browse through the categories available in the GIF keyboard app.
6. Once you find the desired GIF, tap on it to select it.
7. The GIF will be copied to your clipboard automatically. Switch back to the Snapchat app and paste the GIF into the chat conversation by long-pressing in the text input field and selecting the "Paste" option.
8. The GIF will be sent as a message in the Snapchat chat.
Pros:
– GIF keyboard apps provide a wide variety of GIFs to choose from.
– Easy integration with the iPhone keyboard for quick access.
– Some GIF keyboard apps allow you to create your own GIFs.
Cons:
– Requires downloading and installing a separate app.
– May encounter occasional lag or performance issues.
– Limited customization options compared to other methods.
Method 2: Using the GIPHY App
GIPHY is a popular platform for finding and sharing GIFs, and it offers a dedicated iOS app that allows you to easily search for and send GIFs on various messaging platforms, including Snapchat. Here’s how you can use the GIPHY app to send a GIF on Snapchat chat:
1. Download and install the GIPHY app from the App Store.
2. Open the Snapchat app and start a chat conversation with a friend.
3. Switch to the GIPHY app by double-pressing the home button (or using gesture controls on newer iPhone models) to access the app switcher, then select the GIPHY app.
4. Search for a specific GIF using keywords or explore the trending and popular GIFs available in the GIPHY app.
5. Once you find a GIF, tap on it to view it in full screen.
6. Tap the Snapchat icon located below the GIF to open the Snapchat share sheet.
7. In the Snapchat share sheet, select the friend or group you want to send the GIF to, and tap the Send button.
Pros:
– Dedicated app for searching and sharing GIFs.
– Easy integration with Snapchat and other messaging platforms.
– Various categories and trending GIFs available for browsing.
Cons:
– Requires downloading and installing a separate app.
– Limited customization options compared to other methods.
– Constant internet connection needed to access the GIPHY database.
Method 3: Using a GIF Search Engine
If you prefer not to install additional apps on your iPhone, you can use a GIF search engine to find and send GIFs on Snapchat chat. There are several search engines, such as GIPHY and Tenor, that provide GIF search functionality directly from your mobile browser. Here’s how you can use a GIF search engine to send a GIF on Snapchat chat:
1. Open your preferred mobile browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.) on your iPhone.
2. Visit the website of a GIF search engine such as GIPHY or Tenor.
3. Use the search bar on the website to enter keywords related to the type of GIF you want to send.
4. Browse through the search results and select the desired GIF by tapping on it.
5. Press and hold the GIF to bring up the contextual menu, then tap the Copy option.
6. Open the Snapchat app and start a chat conversation with a friend.
7. Paste the copied GIF into the chat conversation by long-pressing in the text input field and selecting the "Paste" option.
8. The GIF will be sent as a message in the Snapchat chat.
Pros:
– No installation of additional apps required.
– Can be accessed directly from your mobile browser.
– Offers a wide range of GIF search options.
Cons:
– Requires an internet connection to access the GIF search engine.
– Limited customization options compared to other methods.
– May not have as extensive a collection of GIFs as dedicated apps.
Method 4: Via the Photos App
Step 1: Find the GIF you want to send and save it to the Photos app on your iPhone.
Step 2: Open the Snapchat app and start a chat conversation with a friend.
Step 3: Tap on the camera button to access your photo library.
Step 4: Select the GIF from your Photos app and tap the "Send" button.
Pros:
– Easy access to GIFs stored in your Photos app.
– No need to install additional apps or use third-party services.
– Full control over the GIF selection and organization.
Cons:
– Limited to GIFs saved in your Photos app.
– Requires prior download and saving of the desired GIF.
– May take up storage space on your iPhone.
Why Can’t I Send GIFs on Snapchat Chat?
1. Outdated Snapchat App: Make sure you are using the latest version of the Snapchat app, as older versions may not support GIF functionality. Update the app from the App Store if necessary.
2. Internet Connection Issues: GIFs require an active internet connection to load and send. Check your Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to ensure it is stable.
3. Incompatible Keyboard Extensions: Some keyboard extensions do not include GIF functionality by default. Make sure your keyboard extension is updated or install a GIF-enabled keyboard app.
4. Unsupported GIF Formats: Snapchat may have limitations on the types of GIFs it supports. Ensure that the GIF you are trying to send meets the required format criteria.
Fixes:
– Update the Snapchat app to the latest version.
– Check and restore your internet connection.
– Install a compatible keyboard extension or GIF keyboard app.
– Convert the GIF to a supported format if necessary.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience of sending GIFs on Snapchat chat:
1. Be mindful of the GIF size: Large GIFs take longer to load and may affect the overall experience. Opt for compact and optimized GIFs when possible.
2. Consider the context: Ensure that the GIF you are sending is appropriate for the conversation and aligned with the recipient’s preferences.
3. Experiment with GIF effects: Snapchat offers various effects, filters, and stickers that can be applied to GIFs, allowing you to add a personal touch to your messages.
5 FAQs about Sending GIFs on Snapchat Chat
Q1: Can I send GIFs on Snapchat stories?
A1: No, Snapchat does not support sending GIFs directly on stories. However, you can save a GIF to your photo library and upload it as a regular photo or video on your Snapchat story.
Q2: Why are my GIFs not playing on Snapchat?
A2: If your GIFs are not playing on Snapchat, it might be due to compatibility issues. Ensure that the GIF format is supported by Snapchat and check your internet connection for any disruptions.
Q3: Are there any limitations on the GIF size for Snapchat chat?
A3: Snapchat has a limit on the file size of media that can be sent through chat. GIFs exceeding this limit may not be sent. It’s best to use compact and optimized GIFs to avoid any issues.
Q4: Can I send GIFs on Snapchat chat in group conversations?
A4: Yes, you can send GIFs on Snapchat chat in both individual and group conversations. The process of sending GIFs is the same for both types of chats.
Q5: Will the recipient know if I send a GIF on Snapchat chat?
A5: Yes, when you send a GIF on Snapchat chat, it will appear as a message with the GIF’s thumbnail. The recipient can tap on the message to view the GIF.
In Conclusion
While Snapchat does not have a built-in feature to send GIFs on its chat platform, you can still share animated messages by using various methods. Whether it’s through GIF keyboard apps, dedicated GIF apps like GIPHY, using a GIF search engine, or via the Photos app, these methods provide you with a way to brighten up your Snapchat conversations with exciting and expressive GIFs. So go ahead and try out these methods to add a touch of animation to your Snapchat chats!