2024-06-20 08:47:33 CEST update
WhatsApp’s GIF glitch appears to be resolved. Users are reporting that GIFs are sending again, without the need for an app update, suggesting a server-side fix from Meta.
Original article published on 2024-06-19 08:16:00 CEST
WhatsApp users worldwide are experiencing a frustrating new glitch: the inability to send GIFs. The issue, which appears to have arisen after the June 17, 2024 app update, has sparked outrage and confusion among users who rely on GIFs for daily communication.
Reports of the problem flooded social media platforms, with users sharing screenshots of an error message stating, “Can’t send this GIF. Choose a different GIF and try again.” Interestingly, the problem doesn’t seem to discriminate; even GIFs that were sent successfully before the update won’t be sent.
The weird thing is you can search the GIF gallery, preview the GIF, but when you hit send, it just won’t – you’ll get a message saying the file is not compatible.
This isn’t the first time WhatsApp has faced issues with GIFs. Similar problems have been reported in the past, resolved with subsequent updates from the app’s parent company, Meta.
The cause of the current GIF-sending problem remains unclear. Speculation ranges from encoding issues to server-side problems, but without official word from Meta, users are left in the dark.
For now, it seems the only solution is to wait for Meta to release a fix. In the meantime, the only way to share your emotions and reactions is using emojis, static meme images or videos.
While the GIF-pocalypse may be a temporary inconvenience, it highlights a growing concern among WhatsApp users: the need for greater transparency and communication from Meta when problems arise. Until then, users will have to find other ways to express their emotions and keep the conversation flowing.
Interesting links
- How to send GIFs on WhatsApp FAQ
- Read about the problem on Reddit