Facebook is testing a GIF button for its messenger service, which will enable users to seek out better multimedia content.
The new feature for Facebook Messenger will make the search for GIFs and stickers simpler. The dedicated GIF button being tested will allow users to exchange moving images in two taps. This would do away with the current method of downloading and using a specific app for the purpose of sharing GIFs via the Facebook Messenger.
According to reports, the new feature was pushed out in Canada to a select group of Facebook Messenger users last week. To know if you're among the selected testers of the feature, simply load your Messenger app and try to locate a tiny magnifying glass search icon. This will be available on the right of the "Type a message" field - if you're among the select few.
Facebook confirmed the testing of the feature to publication TechCrunch.
"GIFs have seen success as a rich media format within Messenger. With this feature, we're testing various ways to make it even easier to send great content - like GIFs - with just a few taps," revealed Facebook.
While previously the third-party GIF apps (which work in tandem with Facebook Messenger) were available, the current feature being tested will help users skim through a slew of GIFs that are trending thanks to Riffsy and Giphy who have apps for the Facebook Messenger. Users need not leave the Messenger app to locate GIFs anymore.
Now when users who are testing the feature send a particular GIF via the Messenger, a link to download the GIF Messenger apps from either Giphy or Riffsy appears.
Since the feature is under testing, the number of GIFs currently available is limited. However, once it is rolled out officially people may have access to more GIFs.
It remains to be seen when Facebook will push out the GIF button for its Messenger officially.
Photo: Maria Elena | Flickr
