WhatsApp Seamlessly Switches GIF Provider from Tenor to GIPHY Amid API Shutdown
WhatsApp recently made a significant backend change to its GIF search mechanism without requiring any user action. According to WABetaInfo, the messaging app shifted users who relied on the Tenor GIF service to its competitor GIPHY. This change was prompted by Tenor's closure of its public API, which had been a primary source for GIF searches and sharing in WhatsApp and other apps for years.
The shutdown of Tenor's API risked disrupting GIF search functionality for some users. To avoid any negative impact on user experience, WhatsApp implemented the transition on the server side, meaning users did not need to update the app, adjust settings, or log in again. For most users, the change is nearly imperceptible, with GIF search and sending continuing as usual. However, search results may differ slightly due to GIPHY's distinct algorithm and content library.
Currently, WhatsApp relies on GIPHY as its main GIF provider but is reportedly exploring adding another supplier, Klipy, to create operational redundancy and reduce dependence on a single provider.
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