WhatsApp might finally get full support for GIF images in conversations soon, if the latest beta for Windows phones is any indication. According to Italian website Aggiornamenti Lumia, version 2.16.138 adds recognition of GIF images on selection, but unfortunately, the images are not yet animated when added to messages.
The website captured the process with its own GIF image, which we have included below:
The only main difference being sported right now is a GIF overlay when selecting an image, which you can see above in the before and after comparisons. The WhatsApp beta is a closed one, and to take part, a user must email support@whatsapp.com and request to be enrolled in the beta. As of now, according to the automated email response, the company is not accepting new beta testers.
Earlier this year, WhatsApp added support for document sharing, later arriving on Windows phones, and as of writing ,the company has not made any official statement on the status of GIF support arriving in the app, or which platforms will be supported.
Source: Aggiornamenti Lumia