Many Android users have reported an issue with Google Messages where GIFs from iPhones are distorted, appearing as static images filled with misplaced pixels or dots. The problem has been reported across various Android devices, including Pixel and Samsung phones. Animated character GIFs in particular appear speckled with green and pink dots, making it hard to discern the original image.
The cause of this issue is still unclear, but it is suspected that compatibility issues between iOS and Android systems may be at play. Unfortunately, both Google and Apple are yet to officially acknowledge the issue. In the meantime, users are left to seek out third-party solutions, with some reporting a slight improvement after clearing their Message app’s cache.
This issue underlines the occasionally difficult relationship between different operating systems, and advocates for improved compatibility and communication between them. It is not the first time Google Messages has experienced issues with iPhone’s GIFs, as there have been previous instances where the images didn’t display correctly or lost their dynamic transition effect.
Users are encouraged to report these issues to Google, either via user feedback on the Google Messages app or through the official Google Support website. Despite the widespread disruption, it remains uncertain when an update or patch will be released to address the problem.
Addressing Android’s iPhone GIF distortion issue
In particular, the issue does not appear to affect all conversations between iPhone and Android users, with some Android users reporting no distortion in GIFs sent by iPhones.
The problem seems more related to the image sharing procedure, with suggested causes including image size, compression, or encoding issues. As a result, simple workarounds such as re-uploading the GIF or using a different messaging app may resolve the issue for now.
The Google Messages app may potentially be the source of the issue, rather than the Android Operating System. Since Google Messages is not tied to a specific service provider, it’s logical that reported issues across multiple providers are related to this app or its recent update. Users may find relief in uninstalling then reinstalling the app, or reverting back to a previous version.
Increased testing is also required to pinpoint the cause of the issue, with current theories suggesting compatibility issues with Apple’s new iOS. The matter may be resolved once the final version of iOS 17.5 is launched. Until then, users are urged to keep their devices updated and report any persistent problems directly.
Apple is also preparing to integrate “Rich Communication Services” (RCS) into iPhones, with a potential release due at WWDC in 2024. It is uncertain whether the integration of RCS might be contributing to the GIF distortion. Apple’s official position on the integration and its potential role in the new iOS remains uncertain, leading to mounting speculation from tech enthusiasts and consumers alike.