# GIF-Sharing Social Media Updates A New Update Enables Users to Post GIFs to Instagram Stories By Ell Smith | Published 2018-01-25 | Social Media Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gifs-to-instagram-stories References: [hypebae](https://hypebae.com/2018/1/instagram-story-gif-feature) & [blog.instagram](http://blog.instagram.com/) Shortly after releasing its new 'Activity Feature' [Instagram](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instagram-7) has returned to announce that its app has been updated to allow individuals to post GIFs to Instagram stories. Previously, Instagram has introduced elements of augmented reality, in addition to a variety of [entertaining stickers to its stories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instagram-comment-sticker-generator), but this recent update serves as its most unique yet. With the brand-new feature, users can unlock stickers and GIFs through the online platform, [GIPHY](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-window). GIPHY's library hosts thousands of images that range from humorous reactions, to adorable puppies. This new method of engagement is sure to encourage more user's to post stories through the photo-sharing platform. Users can only access the new feature once they've updated Instagram's app. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 43% | Activity: 57% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Social Media](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialmedia) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Gif-sharing on Social Media:** The ability to post GIFs on Instagram Stories creates new opportunities for user engagement and expression. - **Augmented Reality in Social Media:** Instagram's previous introduction of augmented reality elements in its stories paves the way for innovative and immersive experiences. - **Integration of Third-party Platforms:** Integration with GIPHY demonstrates the potential for social media platforms to collaborate with external content providers for enhanced user experiences. ### Where This Applies - **Social Media:** The GIF-sharing update on Instagram showcases the ongoing evolution and competition within the social media industry. - **Digital Content Creation:** The ability to include GIFs in Instagram Stories opens up new avenues for creative expression and content curation on digital platforms. - **Visual Communication Tools:** The integration of GIFs and augmented reality features on Instagram highlights the demand for innovative visual communication tools in various industries. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sticker-Creating Social Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instagram-7.md) - [Social Media Round-Up Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/igplayback.md) - [Social Posting Musical Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/photo-carousels.md) - [Social Posting Platform Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/send-on-instagram.md) - [Instagram NFT Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/instagram.md) - [Social App Feature Updates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/status-update.md) - [AI-Fuelled GIF Generators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-gif.md) - [App-Based NFT Posts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nfts-on-instagram.md) - [User-Focused Product Tagging Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/product-tagging.md)