How to Get GIF Wallpaper on iPhone

By Riley Published July 12, 2023

Have you ever wanted to personalize your iPhone's home screen with a lively and captivating wallpaper? While static images can be visually appealing, adding an animated GIF as your wallpaper can bring your device to life. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting GIF wallpapers on your iPhone, step-by-step. Whether you're an iPhone enthusiast or a tech-savvy individual, this guide will help you elevate your device's visual appeal while reflecting your unique style.

Understanding GIF Wallpapers

Before we dive into the process, let's take a moment to understand what a GIF wallpaper is. GIF stands for Graphics Interchange Format, which is a type of image file that supports both static and animated images. Unlike traditional wallpapers, GIF wallpapers display a sequence of images in a loop, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. By using a GIF as your wallpaper, you can bring motion and liveliness to your iPhone's screen.

Now, let's explore the step-by-step process of getting a GIF wallpaper on your iPhone.

Step 1: Choose and Download a GIF Wallpaper

The first step is to find a GIF wallpaper that suits your taste and preferences. You can discover a wide range of GIFs on popular websites such as GIPHY, Tenor, or Reddit's dedicated GIF subreddits. Once you find a GIF that catches your eye, download it to your iPhone's Camera Roll. Make sure to choose a high-quality GIF for the best visual experience.

Step 2: Convert the GIF into a Live Photo

Since iPhones do not support GIFs as wallpapers directly, we need to convert the GIF into a Live Photo, which is a format compatible with the iPhone's wallpaper settings. To convert the GIF, follow these steps:

1. Download and install a GIF-to-Live-Photo converter app from the App Store. Some popular options include "IntoLive" and "GIPHY: The GIF Search Engine."
2. Open the converter app and grant it access to your Camera Roll.
3. Select the downloaded GIF from your Camera Roll within the converter app.
4. Customize the Live Photo settings, such as playback duration and effects, if desired.
5. Save the converted Live Photo to your Camera Roll.

Step 3: Set the Live Photo as Wallpaper

Now that you have a Live Photo version of your chosen GIF, it's time to set it as your wallpaper. Here's how you can do it:

1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on "Wallpaper" and then "Choose a New Wallpaper."
3. Select the Live Photo you converted in Step 2 from your Camera Roll.
4. Adjust the Live Photo by dragging and scaling it according to your preference.
5. Choose either "Set Lock Screen," "Set Home Screen," or "Set Both" to apply the Live Photo as your wallpaper.

Congratulations! You've successfully set up a GIF wallpaper on your iPhone.

Troubleshooting Tips

In case you encounter any issues during the process, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

1. Ensure that you've granted the necessary permissions to the GIF-to-Live-Photo converter app.
2. Check that the GIF you downloaded is compatible with the converter app and meets the size and duration requirements.
3. If the Live Photo does not animate on your lock screen, make sure you're using the correct Live Photo setting.
4. Restart your iPhone if you experience any glitches or unexpected behavior.

Conclusion

Adding a GIF wallpaper to your iPhone is an excellent way to showcase your individuality and breathe life into your device's display. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, you can easily transform any GIF into an animated wallpaper. Explore the vast collection of GIFs available online, unleash your creativity, and create a unique visual experience on your iPhone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use any GIF as a wallpaper on my iPhone?

Yes, as long as you convert the GIF into a Live Photo using a compatible app, you can use it as a wallpaper on your iPhone.

Are there any recommended GIF-to-Live-Photo converter apps for iPhones?

Some popular converter apps include "IntoLive" and "GIPHY: The GIF Search Engine," which offer user-friendly interfaces and various customization options.

Can I set different GIF wallpapers for my lock screen and home screen?

Yes, you can choose to set different GIF wallpapers for your lock screen and home screen by selecting the appropriate option when applying the Live Photo as your wallpaper.

Do GIF wallpapers consume more battery life compared to static wallpapers?

Yes, since GIF wallpapers are animated and continuously running, they may consume slightly more battery life compared to static wallpapers. However, the difference is usually minimal and shouldn't significantly impact your device's battery performance.

Can I revert to a static wallpaper after using a GIF wallpaper?

Absolutely! You can easily switch back to a static wallpaper at any time by following the same steps and selecting a static image from your Camera Roll instead of a Live Photo.