How to create GIFs from videos on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating GIFs from videos on your iPhone can be accomplished using various methods, including built-in features and third-party apps. This guide will walk you through multiple approaches to ensure you can easily convert your videos into GIFs.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start creating GIFs from videos on your iPhone, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 13 or later for optimal app compatibility.
  • •Sufficient storage space on your device to save the GIFs.
  • •Access to the Photos app or third-party apps like GIPHY or ImgPlay.
  • •Wi-Fi or cellular data for downloading apps if needed.

Method 1: Using the Photos App

This method is ideal for quick GIF creation from videos already stored in your Photos app.
  • •Step 1: Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the video you want to convert to a GIF and tap on it.
  • •Step 3: Tap the 'Share' icon (a square with an upward arrow) located at the bottom left corner.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down and select 'Save as GIF'. If this option is not available, you may need to use a third-party app.
  • •Step 5: Confirm the GIF is saved by checking your Photos app under 'Albums' > 'Animated'.
  • •Step 6: If the GIF does not appear, try restarting your Photos app or your iPhone.

For iOS 14 and later

iOS 14 introduced enhancements to the Photos app, making GIF creation smoother.
  • •Step 1: Follow the same steps as above; the 'Save as GIF' option should be readily available.
  • •Step 2: You can also edit the video length before saving by trimming it in the editing interface.

For iOS 13

In iOS 13, the GIF creation option may not be as straightforward.
  • •Step 1: Use the same method but be aware that you might need to download a third-party app for better functionality.

Method 2: Using GIPHY App

GIPHY is a popular app for creating and sharing GIFs, offering more customization options.
  • •Step 1: Download the GIPHY app from the App Store and open it.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the '+' icon at the bottom of the screen to create a new GIF.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Camera Roll' to choose a video from your library.
  • •Step 4: Trim the video to the desired length (GIPHY allows GIFs up to 15 seconds).
  • •Step 5: Add text, stickers, or filters as desired, then tap 'Next'.
  • •Step 6: Choose 'Save GIF' to save it to your device or share it directly to social media.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating GIFs, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to save GIF' - Solution: Ensure you have enough storage space on your device.
  • •Issue: GIF quality is poor - Fix: Use a higher resolution video or adjust settings in the app.
  • •Problem: GIF not appearing in Photos - Workaround: Restart the Photos app or check if the GIF is saved in the GIPHY app.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your GIF creation experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - GIF creation on iPhone does not utilize keyboard shortcuts.
  • •Hidden feature: Use GIPHY's 'Loop' option to create continuous GIFs.
  • •Tip: Experiment with different apps like ImgPlay for additional features.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best GIF creation experience, use dedicated apps that offer more features and customization options.