WhatsApp Is Replacing Tenor With a New GIF Provider. WhatsApp is preparing for a major behind-the-scenes change that will affect how millions of users search and share GIFs. The messaging app is set to replace Tenor with Klipy as one of its default GIF providers, ensuring uninterrupted access to animated content in the months ahead.
This update was discovered in a recent iOS beta build and signals a broader industry shift away from Tenor following the shutdown of its API services. Here’s everything you need to know about the change, why it’s happening, and how it may affect you.
WhatsApp Confirms Tenor Replacement in iOS Beta
According to a new report by WABetaInfo, the upcoming change was spotted in WhatsApp beta version 26.2.10.70 for iOS. This version is currently available through Apple’s TestFlight program.
The beta reveals that WhatsApp is actively working on integrating Klipy as a new GIF provider. While the feature is still under development, its presence in the beta strongly suggests a wider rollout in a future stable update.
At the moment, the change is not visible to regular users, but WhatsApp appears to be preparing well in advance to avoid any service disruption.
Why WhatsApp Is Dropping Tenor
The main reason behind the switch is Tenor’s decision to shut down its API services.
Tenor API Shutdown Timeline
- Tenor will officially shut down its API on June 30, 2026
- New developer registrations have already been closed
- Apps relying on Tenor must migrate to an alternative provider
Tenor’s API is what allows third-party apps like WhatsApp to search and display GIFs inside chats. Once the API goes offline, apps that haven’t transitioned would lose GIF search functionality entirely.
To prevent this, WhatsApp has decided to integrate Klipy as a replacement before the shutdown deadline.
What Is Klipy?
Klipy is a digital content platform that provides:
- Animated GIFs
- Memes
- Stickers
The platform offers an official API that allows apps to search, load, and share animated media in real time. This makes Klipy a suitable long-term replacement for Tenor.
Unlike Tenor, Klipy is actively onboarding developers and expanding its content library, which makes it a stable option for large platforms like WhatsApp.
How Klipy Will Work Inside WhatsApp
WhatsApp plans to make the transition as seamless as possible.
Automatic Migration
- Users who currently get GIFs from Tenor will be automatically migrated to Klipy
- No manual action will be required
- Existing GIF-sharing features will continue to work as usual
Once the switch is complete, GIFs sourced from Klipy will display a small Klipy label inside WhatsApp. This is similar to how Tenor or Giphy branding appears today.
Will This Change Affect All WhatsApp Users?
Not everyone will notice a difference.
Current GIF Providers on WhatsApp
Right now, WhatsApp supports:
- Tenor
- Giphy
Depending on your region and account setup, you may only have access to one of these providers.
Who Will Be Affected
- Users who currently rely on Tenor will be redirected to Klipy
- Users who already use Giphy will not be affected at all
From a user experience point of view, GIF search, sharing, and playback will remain unchanged.
Why This Move Matters for Users
While this update may seem minor, it plays an important role in keeping WhatsApp reliable.
Key Benefits of the Transition
- No interruption in GIF search after June 2026
- Continued access to trending and viral animated content
- Smooth transition without user involvement
- Future-proofing WhatsApp’s media features
For most users, the switch will happen quietly in the background.
Industry-Wide Shift Away From Tenor
WhatsApp is not the only platform preparing for life after Tenor.
Other major services that previously depended on Tenor’s API have already started migrating to Klipy. One notable example is Discord, which has begun transitioning ahead of the same June 2026 deadline.
This suggests a broader industry trend, with Klipy emerging as a preferred alternative for animated content integration.
When Will WhatsApp Release the Update?
WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for the Klipy integration. However, based on the Tenor shutdown timeline, the rollout is expected to be completed before July 1, 2026.
This gives WhatsApp enough time to:
- Test the feature in beta
- Fix bugs
- Ensure global availability
Once live, the update will likely arrive through a standard app update on both iOS and Android.
What You Need to Do (Hint: Nothing)
For regular users, no action is required.
- You don’t need to update settings
- You don’t need to download anything new
- Your GIF history and chat experience will remain the same
The entire migration will be handled automatically by WhatsApp.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s decision to replace Tenor with Klipy is a practical and forward-looking move. With Tenor’s API shutting down in mid-2026, the transition ensures that GIF sharing remains smooth, fast, and reliable for users worldwide.
While most people won’t notice the change, it highlights how WhatsApp continues to adapt behind the scenes to keep everyday features working without disruption.
