Instagram has just announced that a long overdue feature is now available for everyone using its app – the option to send GIFs in direct messages. GIFs like “LOL” or “I love you” can now be messaged between friends whenever they need to express themselves visually.

To use the feature, simply tap the new GIF button in the composes bar in any message to open a library of the latest trending GIFs powered by GIPHY. Choose whichever you want by searching the massive library using keywords or phrases.


Additionally, you can choose to send a random GIF if you treasure the element of surprise more than anything else. Simply tap “random” after you type in the search bar to send a random GIF associated with what you've searched (so, it's not really random after all).

According to Instagram, the option to send GIFs in direct messages is available starting today in the latest version of the app for both Android and iOS, so make sure to download the new update to take advantage of the feature.