WhatsApp’s New Beta for Android Adds a Searchable GIF Library

Android users can finally rejoice as WhatsApp is rolling out a much-anticipated feature in its latest beta version. The update, version 2.17.6, now allows users to search for and send GIFs directly from the chat window, a feature iOS users have enjoyed for months. This update brings animated fun to conversations by integrating popular GIF libraries like Giphy and Tenor, making it easier than ever to find the perfect reaction GIF.

How to Find and Use the New GIF Feature

Accessing the new GIF library is simple and integrated directly into the existing user interface. You no longer need to leave the app to find and share GIFs.

This new feature is located right next to the emoji picker, making it intuitive for all users. Once you have the correct beta version installed, you can start sending GIFs in just a few taps.

Here is how you can do it:

1. Open any chat conversation in WhatsApp.
2. Tap on the emoji icon located to the left of the text input field.
3. At the bottom of the emoji panel, you will see a new toggle button for GIFs.
4. Tap on the GIF button to open the search library, find your desired GIF, and send it.

Catching up with iOS Users

While this is exciting news for the Android community, it’s a feature that iPhone users have had since November of last year. The introduction of GIF search on Android brings the app closer to feature parity across the two major mobile operating systems.

This update finally closes a significant gap in the user experience between the two platforms.

More Than Just GIFs: Expanded Media Sharing

Alongside the fun addition of GIFs, WhatsApp has also included a very practical update in a recent version. The platform has increased the number of media files you can send at once from 10 to 30.

This is a huge improvement for anyone who shares albums of photos or multiple videos with friends and family. It streamlines the process and saves you from having to select and send files in multiple small batches.

A Curious Case of Missing Features in a Later Beta

Interestingly, some beta testers have noted a strange inconsistency. The GIF search and the increased media limit are reportedly missing from a more recent beta version, v2.17.8.

It is unclear why these features would be removed in a subsequent update. This could be due to A/B testing, where WhatsApp tests features on different user groups, or it could be a temporary rollback to fix bugs before a wider release. This has caused some confusion among users who closely follow the beta updates.

How to Get These Features Now

If you’re an Android user eager to try out GIF search and the higher media sharing limit, you don’t have to wait for the official public release. The full version of these updates is expected to be released shortly for everyone.

You can get access now by either joining the official WhatsApp beta program through the Google Play Store or by downloading the specific APK file for version 2.17.6 directly from a trusted source like APK Mirror.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I search for GIFs on WhatsApp for Android?
To search for GIFs, you need the beta version 2.17.6. Tap the emoji icon in a chat, then select the new GIF toggle at the bottom to access the search library powered by Giphy or Tenor.

Is the WhatsApp GIF feature available for all Android users?
No, currently this feature is only available for users on a specific beta version of the app (2.17.6). A public release for all stable version users is expected to happen soon.

What is the new media sharing limit on WhatsApp?
The new beta version increased the limit for sending photos and videos at one time from 10 to 30 files, making it much easier to share large batches of media.

Why did the GIF feature disappear in a newer beta version?
It is not officially confirmed, but features sometimes disappear from beta versions for further testing, bug fixes, or as part of controlled rollouts. It will likely reappear before the official public launch.