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How to Send GIFs on Messenger and Fix GIF Not Sending Issues

hitpaw editor in chief By Daniel Walker
Last Updated: 2026-01-07 20:12:04

GIFs have become one of the most popular ways to express emotions and reactions in online chats. According to Meta, billions of messages are sent daily on Facebook Messenger, and animated GIFs are among the most shared content types. Knowing how to send GIFs on Messenger helps you communicate more creatively, whether you are chatting with friends, family, or colleagues. This guide explains how to send a GIF on Facebook Messenger using both mobile and desktop, covers common GIF Not Sending problems, and shows how to enhance GIF quality before sharing.

Part 1. How to Send GIFs on Messenger Mobile App?

Using GIFs on the Messenger mobile app is quick and intuitive once you know where to look. Whether you are new to Messenger or wondering how do you send a GIF on Messenger, the built in GIF library makes it easy to find trending or searchable animations. You can send a GIF on fb Messenger within seconds on both iPhone and Android devices.

Steps to send GIFs on Facebook Messenger mobile:

  • 1.Open the Facebook Messenger app on your iPhone or Android phone.
  • 2.Select a person or group chat from your conversations list.
  • 3.In the bottom menu, tap the plus plus icon and select the GIF tab.
  • 4.Or tap the smiley face icon in the text field and switch to the GIF tab.
  • 5.Browse the GIF collection or search using keywords.
  • 6.Tap your chosen GIF and it will send immediately.
how to send gifs on messenger mobile app

Part 2. How to Send a GIF on Facebook Messenger Desktop?

If you prefer chatting on a computer, you can also send GIFs on Facebook Messenger through a web browser. This method is useful for work or long conversations and answers the question of how do you send a GIF on Facebook Messenger without a phone. The desktop interface offers the same searchable GIF library.

Steps to send a GIF on Messenger desktop:

  1. Log into Facebook using your preferred web browser.
  2. Open Messenger by clicking the Messages icon or opening a chat window.
  3. Select a person or group chat.
  4. Click the GIF icon in the bottom menu bar of the chat.

    gifs icon on messenger desktop
  5. Browse or search for a specific GIF using keywords.
  6. Click the GIF to send it instantly.
  7. choose-and-send gifs on messenger desktop

Part 3. Why Can't I Send GIFs on Facebook Messenger?

If you are unable to send GIFs on Facebook Messenger, the issue is usually caused by technical or settings related problems rather than account restrictions. An outdated app, unstable internet connection, temporary glitches, or limitations in end to end encrypted chats can all prevent the GIF picker from loading or appearing. Understanding the exact cause helps you quickly restore the ability to send GIFs normally.

  • Outdated App: An old Messenger version may lack GIF support.

    Fix: Open Google Play or the App Store and update Facebook Messenger to the latest version.

  • Poor Internet Connection: GIFs need a stable connection to load.

    Fix: Check your Wi Fi or mobile data, restart your router, or switch to a different network.

  • App Glitch or Cache Issues: Temporary bugs can hide or break features.

    Fix App: Clear Messenger cache and data in your phone settings, or uninstall and reinstall the app.

    Fix Web: Clear your browser cache and cookies if using Messenger on a computer.

  • Encrypted Chats: GIFs may not work in end to end encrypted conversations.

    Fix: Try sending GIFs in a regular, non encrypted chat to confirm the issue.

  • Missing GIF Buttonon Messenger: The icon may be hidden in the menu.

    Fix: Tap the smiley face icon or the plus button next to the text bar to reveal options like Stickers, GIFs, or Games.

Part 4. Best Way to Improve GIF Quality Before Sending or Sharing on Messenger

Before you send GIFs on Facebook Messenger, improving their clarity and smoothness can make a big difference, especially on large screens. HitPaw VikPea is a powerful AI based tool designed to upscale and enhance videos and GIFs with minimal effort. It helps reduce blur, sharpen details, and upscale resolution, making your GIFs look cleaner and more professional when you send a GIF on fb Messenger.

  • AI powered upscaling improves GIF resolution while preserving original animation smoothness
  • Advanced sharpening enhances blurry GIF details for clearer Messenger sharing
  • Noise reduction removes compression artifacts commonly found in low quality GIFs
  • Supports GIF and video formats for flexible Messenger content preparation
  • Batch processing allows enhancing multiple GIFs quickly and efficiently
  • High resolution export options suitable for modern high resolution displays
  • Step 1.Download and launch HitPaw VikPea on your computer. Open Video Enhancer and import your GIF or directly drag your GIF into the workspace.

    vikpea gif enhancer
  • Step 2.Choose from AI models like General Model, Sharpen Model, Portrait Model, or Video Quality Repair Model based on your needs.

    select ai model to enhance gif
  • Step 3.In Export Settings, select your desired resolution up to 4K or 8K, preview the result, then export and save your enhanced GIF.

    export enhanced gif

Part 5. FAQs about Sending GIFs in Facebook Messenger

Yes, Messenger has a built in GIF feature on both mobile and desktop. You can browse or search for animations directly in any chat and send a GIF instantly without downloading extra apps.

GIFs are enabled by default in Messenger. If you cannot see them, update the app, check your internet connection, and tap the smiley face or plus icon to reveal the GIF tab.

The GIF option is located in the chat input area. On mobile, tap the smiley face or plus icon. On desktop, click the GIF icon in the message toolbar at the bottom.

Conclusion

Learning how to send GIFs on Messenger makes conversations more expressive and engaging. Whether you use mobile or desktop, the steps are simple once you know where the GIF option is located. If problems occur, quick fixes like updating the app or checking your connection usually solve them. For even better results, enhancing GIF quality before sharing ensures your animations look sharp and smooth in every Messenger chat.

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